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GCSE Chemistry · key term
A functional group written as –NH₂ in an amino acid.
Used by AQA
Specification 4.7.3.3 · Paper 2
Revise: Amino Acids and PolypeptidesThis combination is important because it allows one amino-acid molecule to react at both ends. Its amino group can react with the carboxyl group of another molecule, while its carboxyl group can react with the amino group of a further molecule. Repeating these reactions builds a long chain, so amino acids act as monomers.
When explaining why an amino acid can polymerise, state that each molecule contains two different functional groups: an amino group and a carboxyl group.
If asked how water forms, state that an –OH from a carboxyl group and an H from an amino group are removed.
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