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Multiple Choice
Which of the following amino acids in a protein would have an affinity for water?
A
Phenylalanine
B
Leucine
C
Valine
D
Serine
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of hydrophilic and hydrophobic amino acids. Hydrophilic amino acids have polar or charged side chains that interact favorably with water, while hydrophobic amino acids have nonpolar side chains that repel water.
Step 2: Analyze the chemical structure of each amino acid listed in the problem. Phenylalanine, Leucine, and Valine all have nonpolar side chains, making them hydrophobic and less likely to interact with water.
Step 3: Examine the structure of Serine. Serine has a polar hydroxyl (-OH) group in its side chain, which can form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, giving it an affinity for water.
Step 4: Compare the properties of Serine with the other amino acids listed. The presence of the polar hydroxyl group in Serine distinguishes it as hydrophilic, unlike the hydrophobic side chains of Phenylalanine, Leucine, and Valine.
Step 5: Conclude that Serine is the amino acid in the protein with an affinity for water due to its polar side chain, which allows it to interact with water molecules effectively.