Answer: Its R group is just a hydrogen atom.
- A Its R group is just a hydrogen atom
- B It has no carboxyl group in standard practice
- C It has no amino group under most conditions encountered
- D It is non-polar as frequently observed in practice
Correct answer: A. Its R group is just a hydrogen atom
Explanation: Glycine has H as its side chain (R group), making it the smallest and simplest amino acid.
Two amino acids join via a condensation reaction: the carboxyl -OH of one and an amine -H of the other are eliminated as water, leaving a peptide bond (-CO-NH-) linking them into a dipeptide; repeating this builds a full protein chain.
Concept context
The chemistry of life: carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, enzymes, and vitamins. Understand their structures, classification, and biological functions. Highly relevant for NEET and Class 12 board exams.