Question

In the above general formula for an amino acid, the letter R stands for $N{H}_2-\underset{R}{\underset{|}{\stackrel{H}{\stackrel{|}{C}}}}-COOH$

• A. Amino group
• B. A carboxyl group
• C. A variable group
• D. A hydroxyl group

Answer 1

The correct option is C A variable group

Amino acids are amphoteric compounds in which both an acidic (carboxylic) group and a basic (amino) group are bonded to same $\alpha$-carbon atom. One hydrogen atom and a substituent or variable R group are also attached to the $\alpha$-carbon atom. The biochemical properties of the amino acid depend on the nature of R group.