Chapter 22, Problem 22.99QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The term essential amino acid has to be defined.

Concept Introduction:

The general structure of $\text{α-amino acid}$ contains an alpha carbon. The alpha carbon is made up of four different atoms or groups present at its four bonds. This carbon is also called chiral carbon. In $\text{α-amino acid}$, four different groups are a carboxylate group $\left(-{\text{COO}}^{-}\right)$, a protonated amino group $\left(-{\text{NH}}_3^{+}\right)$, hydrogen $\left(-\text{H}\right)$, and an alkyl chain or R group $\left(-\text{R}\right)$. Amino acids are building blocks of protein.

Amino acids are classified into two types that are essential and non-essential amino acids.