Chapter 21, Problem 61P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The difference in the $p{K}_a$ values of the carboxyl groups of alanine, serine and cysteine has to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The value of $p{K}_a$ is depends upon the acidity of a compound or the easiness of the protonation.

If the acidity or easiness of the protonation is high for a compound, then the value of the $p{K}_a$ is less.

The structure of alanine is,

The structure of serine is,

The structure of cysteine is,