What structural feature makes the 20 common amino acids different from one another?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The 20 common amino acids differ from one another based on the structure of their side chains (R groups), which are attached to the alpha carbon in the amino acid backbone. These side chains can be polar or nonpolar, acidic or basic, or other functional groups, which greatly affects the properties and functions of the amino acids. Option A is incorrect because the carboxyl carbon is already part of the amino acid backbone and not part of the side chain. Option B is incorrect because amino groups are also part of the amino acid backbone and not part of the side chain. Option D is incorrect because all amino acids have a single asymmetric carbon and do not differ from one another based on this feature alone.

What Structural Feature Makes the 20 Common Amino Acids Different