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Ch.23 - Organic and Biological Chemistry
Chapter 23, Problem 115

Name and draw the structures of amino acids that fit the following descriptions. (a) Contains an isopropyl group (b) Contains an alcohol group (c) Contains a thiol group (d) Contains an aromatic ring

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1
Identify the amino acid with an isopropyl group: The isopropyl group is a branched alkyl group with the formula \( \text{C}_3\text{H}_7 \). The amino acid with this side chain is valine. Draw the structure of valine, showing the isopropyl group attached to the central carbon.
Identify the amino acid with an alcohol group: An alcohol group is characterized by the presence of an \( \text{-OH} \) group. The amino acid with an alcohol group is serine. Draw the structure of serine, highlighting the \( \text{-OH} \) group in its side chain.
Identify the amino acid with a thiol group: A thiol group contains a sulfur atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (\( \text{-SH} \)). The amino acid with a thiol group is cysteine. Draw the structure of cysteine, emphasizing the \( \text{-SH} \) group in its side chain.
Identify the amino acid with an aromatic ring: An aromatic ring is a cyclic, planar structure with delocalized electrons. The amino acid with an aromatic ring is phenylalanine. Draw the structure of phenylalanine, showing the benzene ring as part of its side chain.
Review the structures: Ensure that each amino acid structure includes the central \( \alpha \)-carbon, the amino group (\( \text{-NH}_2 \)), the carboxyl group (\( \text{-COOH} \)), and the specific side chain that matches the given description.