11.8.10

Natural Polyamides - Proteins & Amino Acids

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Natural Polyamides: Proteins and Amino Acids

Proteins are natural polyamides formed from amino acid monomers via condensation reactions (peptide bonds), releasing water. Their structure defines their vital roles in the body.

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Introduction to natural polyamides

  • Natural polyamides are polymers found in living things.
  • Proteins are natural polyamides made of amino acid monomers.
    • The structure of proteins determines their functions.
  • Amino acids link together to form proteins by peptide bonds.
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Structure of amino acids

  • Each amino acid has a central carbon atom.
  • The central carbon attaches to:
    • An amine group (-NH2)
    • A carboxyl group (-COOH)
    • A hydrogen atom (-H)
    • A variable side group (R)
  • The side group (R) changes in different amino acids.
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Formation of proteins by condensation

  • Proteins form when amino acids join in a chain.
    • The amine group reacts with the carboxyl group.
    • A molecule of water (H2O) is released in this condensation reaction.
    • The bond formed is called a peptide bond.
  • Many peptide bonds create a polyamide chain (protein).
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Importance of proteins in the body

  • Proteins perform many functions, such as:
    • Building cells and tissues.
    • Acting as enzymes to speed up reactions.
    • Supporting immune defence.
  • Their natural polyamide structure is key to their function.
  • Proteins' shapes depend on the sequence and type of amino acids.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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