Aspartame exists as a zwitterion with a ________ amine group and a ________ carboxylic acid group.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A zwitterion is a molecule with both positive and negative charges, but overall neutral charge. Aspartame has an amino group (-NH2) and a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) in its structure. At physiological pH (around 7.4), the amino group is protonated (NH3+) and the carboxylic acid group is deprotonated (-COO-), resulting in a zwitterionic form of aspartame. Therefore, the amine group is protonated, and the carboxylic acid group is deprotonated. Choice B accurately reflects this arrangement.

Aspartame Exists as a Zwitterion with a ________ Amine Group