Chapter 21.3, Problem 5P

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

$\text{pH}$ values of Alanine should be given respect with given ${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}$ values.

Concept Introduction:

Acid-base properties of Amino acids:

Every amino acid has a carbonyl group and an amino group, and each group can exist in an acidic form or a basic form, depending on $\text{pH}$ of the solution in which the amino acid is dissolved.

The compound exists primarily in the acidic form in solutions that are more acidic than their ${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}$ values, and primarily in the basic form (without their protons) in solutions that are more basic than their ${\text{pK}}_{\text{a}}$ values.