Why is tryptophan nonpolar?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation about the chemical properties of tryptophan, specifically why it is classified as a nonpolar amino acid. This involves discussing the molecular structure of tryptophan and its side chains.
Answer
Tryptophan is nonpolar due to its indole ring side chain.
Tryptophan is nonpolar due to its side chain structure, which includes an indole ring, contributing to its hydrophobic nature.
Answer for screen readers
Tryptophan is nonpolar due to its side chain structure, which includes an indole ring, contributing to its hydrophobic nature.
More Information
Tryptophan's non-polarity is attributed to the indole ring in its side chain. This ring is hydrophobic and contributes to the overall nonpolar characteristic of tryptophan, despite the presence of an NH group.
Tips
A common mistake is focusing only on the NH group in the side chain; it is more important to consider the hydrophobic nature of the indole ring.
Sources
- Why is tryptophan nonpolar? : r/OrganicChemistry - Reddit - reddit.com
- Why are Tyrosine and Tryptophan considered hydrophobic? - ECHEMI - echemi.com
- Tryptophan - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
