Multiple Choice
Which two atoms are directly connected by a peptide bond in a polypeptide chain?
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4. Protein Structure
Peptide Bond
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What is the name given to the reaction that breaks peptide bonds?
A
Phosphorylation
B
Oxidation
C
Hydrolysis
D
Condensation
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the structure of a peptide bond: A peptide bond is a covalent bond formed between the carboxyl group (-COOH) of one amino acid and the amino group (-NH2) of another amino acid, releasing a molecule of water (H₂O) during its formation.
Recognize the type of reaction that breaks peptide bonds: Breaking a peptide bond requires the addition of water (H₂O), which is characteristic of a hydrolysis reaction. This process cleaves the bond and separates the amino acids.
Compare hydrolysis with other reactions: Phosphorylation involves the addition of a phosphate group, oxidation involves the loss of electrons, and condensation involves the removal of water to form a bond. None of these processes break peptide bonds.
Relate hydrolysis to biological systems: In living organisms, enzymes such as proteases catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds during protein digestion, ensuring the breakdown of proteins into individual amino acids.
Conclude that the correct name for the reaction breaking peptide bonds is hydrolysis, as it involves the addition of water to cleave the bond.
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