An amino acid is an organic compound that contains both an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). It's a building block for proteins, which are essential for life. There are over 500 amino acids found in nature, but only 20 are commonly found in proteins. All amino acids share a basic structure with a central carbon atom attached to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain (R-group). The R-group is what differentiates one amino acid from another, giving each a unique set of properties. Amino acids are also found in other molecules, such as hormones, enzymes, and neurotransmitters.
Key features of amino acids in organic chemistry:
- Organic compounds: They contain carbon-hydrogen bonds.
- Functional groups: They have both an amino group and a carboxylic acid group.
- Building blocks: They are the monomers that form proteins.
- Side chain diversity: The R-group determines the amino acid's specific properties.
- Essential for life: They are involved in various biological processes.
