[Campbell Biology P.125] According to the text, what is a key characteristic of acidic amino... | Practice Question

According to the text, what is a key characteristic of acidic amino acids at the pH found in a cell, distinguishing them from basic amino acids?

  • A: They have nonpolar side chains, making them hydrophobic.
  • B: Their side chains are generally positive in charge due to amino groups.
  • C: They are primarily responsible for muscle contraction.
  • D: Their side chains are generally negative in charge due to dissociated carboxyl groups.
  • E: They are used to build thousands of proteins, but their properties are not explicitly mentioned.

Explanation

The text states: 'Acidic amino acids have side chains that are generally negative in charge due to the presence of a carboxyl group, which is usually dissociated ionized at cellular pH.' It contrasts this with basic amino acids having positive charges.