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Multiple Choice
When scientists examined the folded structure of a purified protein, which level of protein structure were they primarily analyzing?
A
Tertiary structure
B
Secondary structure
C
Quaternary structure
D
Primary structure
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the four levels of protein structure: Primary structure refers to the sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain; Secondary structure involves local folding patterns such as α-helices and β-sheets; Tertiary structure is the overall 3D shape of a single polypeptide chain; Quaternary structure refers to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide chains in a protein complex.
Recognize that the folded structure of a purified protein typically refers to its 3D conformation, which is determined by interactions such as hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic interactions, ionic bonds, and disulfide bridges.
Identify that tertiary structure is the level of protein structure describing the overall 3D shape of a single polypeptide chain, which is often analyzed when studying the folded structure of a purified protein.
Consider that secondary structure focuses on localized folding patterns (e.g., α-helices and β-sheets), while quaternary structure involves multiple polypeptide chains, and primary structure is simply the amino acid sequence.
Conclude that scientists examining the folded structure of a purified protein are primarily analyzing its tertiary structure, as this level describes the protein's overall 3D conformation.