Draw the structure for the amino acid represented by each of the following abbreviations:


d. Y

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the full name of the amino acid represented by the abbreviation 'Y'. In this case, 'Y' stands for Tyrosine.
2. Understand the general structure of an amino acid, which includes an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a unique side chain (R group) attached to a central carbon atom (alpha carbon).
3. Recognize that the side chain (R group) for Tyrosine is a phenol group, which is a benzene ring with a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to it.
4. Draw the central alpha carbon and attach the amino group, carboxyl group, and hydrogen atom to it.
5. Attach the phenol group to the alpha carbon to complete the structure of Tyrosine.

Key Concepts

Amino Acids

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. Each amino acid consists of a central carbon atom, an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a variable side chain (R group) that determines the specific properties of the amino acid. Understanding the structure of amino acids is essential for grasping how they combine to form proteins.

Amino Acid Abbreviations

Amino acids are often represented by one-letter or three-letter abbreviations for convenience in scientific communication. For example, 'Y' stands for tyrosine, which is an amino acid with a specific side chain that influences its chemical behavior and role in proteins. Familiarity with these abbreviations is crucial for interpreting and drawing amino acid structures accurately.

Chemical Structure of Tyrosine

Tyrosine is an aromatic amino acid characterized by a phenolic side chain, which contributes to its unique properties, such as its role in protein structure and function. The chemical structure of tyrosine includes a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a benzene ring, making it polar and capable of forming hydrogen bonds. Understanding its structure is vital for predicting its interactions in biological systems.