Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbon

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Carbon

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3:41 minutes

Problem 8

Textbook Question

VISUAL SKILLS Which of the molecules shown in question 5 has an asymmetric carbon? Which carbon is asymmetric?

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the carbon atoms in the threonine molecule.

Determine if each carbon atom is bonded to four different groups.

Check the first carbon (attached to CH3, OH, NH2, and H) to see if it is asymmetric.

Check the second carbon (attached to OH, NH2, COOH, and H) to see if it is asymmetric.

Conclude which carbon(s) are asymmetric based on the groups attached.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Asymmetric Carbon

An asymmetric carbon atom, also known as a chiral center, is a carbon atom that is bonded to four different groups or atoms. This unique arrangement allows for the existence of two non-superimposable mirror images, known as enantiomers. Identifying asymmetric carbons is crucial in understanding molecular chirality, which can significantly affect the properties and functions of molecules, especially in biological systems.

Threonine Structure

Threonine is an amino acid characterized by its specific molecular structure, which includes an asymmetric carbon atom. It has a hydroxyl group (-OH) and an amino group (-NH2) attached to its carbon backbone, contributing to its classification as a polar amino acid. Understanding threonine's structure is essential for recognizing its role in protein synthesis and its importance in various metabolic processes.

Chirality in Biochemistry

Chirality is a fundamental concept in biochemistry that refers to the property of a molecule having non-superimposable mirror images. This property is particularly significant for amino acids, as the chirality can influence the biological activity and interactions of proteins. In the context of threonine, its chiral nature affects how it interacts with other biomolecules, impacting its function in metabolic pathways and protein structure.