An amino acid acts as an acid in body fluids when:
A)the carboxyl group donates a hydrogen ion
B)the amine group picks up an excess hydrogen ion
C)the amine group donates a hydrogen ion
D)the carboxyl group picks up an excess hydrogen ion

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The carboxyl group in an amino acid has the ability to donate a hydrogen ion (H+) and acts as an acid in body fluids. This occurs due to the electron-withdrawing effect of the adjacent carbonyl group, which makes the hydrogen ion more acidic and easier to donate.

An Amino Acid Acts as an Acid in Body Fluids