Chapter 21, Problem 3A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The range of molar masses shown by proteins in the body must be described. Whether such molar masses are consistent with proteins being polymers must also be explained.

Concept Introduction:

Proteins are biopolymers in which many amino acids are connected in a proper sequence with peptide (amide) bonds.

Answer to Problem 3A

Range of molar masses shown by proteins in the body is less than 30000 to 3000000.

Explanation of Solution

A polymer doesn’t have a higher limit of molecular weight. However minimum molecular weight required for a molecule to be considered a polymer.

Considering average molar mass of an amino acid is 100, there are about 300 amino acids residues in minimum molar mass protein in human body. Tin with molar mass 3000000 is the largest protein known in human body. This contains around 30000 amino acid residues.