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Multiple Choice
A protein's hydrogen bonds are broken and its structure is unfolded when the protein:
A
undergoes peptide bond formation
B
is phosphorylated by a kinase
C
is exposed to high temperatures or extreme pH
D
is synthesized by ribosomes
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of protein denaturation: Protein denaturation refers to the process where a protein loses its native structure due to external stress, such as high temperatures or extreme pH. This disrupts hydrogen bonds and other non-covalent interactions that maintain the protein's folded structure.
Analyze the role of hydrogen bonds in protein structure: Hydrogen bonds are critical for stabilizing secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures of proteins. These bonds are sensitive to environmental changes like temperature and pH.
Evaluate the options provided: Peptide bond formation, phosphorylation by a kinase, and synthesis by ribosomes do not directly disrupt hydrogen bonds or unfold the protein structure. These processes are part of protein synthesis or modification, not denaturation.
Focus on the correct answer: High temperatures or extreme pH can disrupt hydrogen bonds by altering the chemical environment, leading to protein unfolding. For example, heat increases molecular motion, breaking hydrogen bonds, while extreme pH can alter the ionization state of amino acid side chains, destabilizing the structure.
Conclude the reasoning: The correct answer is 'is exposed to high temperatures or extreme pH,' as these conditions directly cause protein denaturation by breaking hydrogen bonds and unfolding the structure.