Chapter U2, Problem C9.4E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : Amino acids and their purpose in our body are to be described.

Concept Introduction : Our body is made of many types of molecules. There are some body building molecules called amino acids.

Answer to Problem C9.4E

Amino acids are the building materials for many structures in our body especially those linked to functioning of cells. General formula for an amino acid is C₂H₄NO₂R, where R is any group of atoms.

Functions of amino acids in our body include:

1. These are the building materials for many kinds of proteins needed by our body.
2. Receptor sites in our nose are made of proteins. So the amino acids help in smelling molecules.
3. They are needed in the synthesis of many parts of our body like organs, hair and muscles.
4. Protein molecules are also needed to send messages throughout the body. So amino acids are needed to synthesize hormones, neurotransmitters, etc.
5. Proteins help the immune system fight infections.

Explanation of Solution

Amino acids are the building materials for many structures in our body especially those linked to functioning of cells. There are 20 different amino acids needed by our body. Our body produces only 6 amino acids; rest is taken in through food.

Functions of amino acids in our body include:

1. These are the building materials for many kinds of proteins needed by our body.The amino acids link with each other to form peptide bonds. The carboxyl group and amine group of two amino acid reacts to form a peptide bond. In this way, long chain of amino acids is formed called protein. Amino acids can be linked in a variety of manner so a variety of protein molecules are available.
2. Receptor sites in our nose are made of proteins. They have a pocket that fits a particular smell molecule. So the amino acids help in smelling molecules.
3. They are needed for synthesis of many parts of our body like organs, hair and muscles. Proteins are the building blocks of many parts of our body. Since proteins are made of amino acids, these are also needed for making hair, organs and muscles.
4. Protein molecules are also needed to send messages throughout the body. So amino acids are needed to synthesize hormones, neurotransmitters, etc.
5. Proteins help the immune system fight off infections.

Conclusion

Amino acids are building blocks of our cells. Our body produces only 6 amino acids; rest is taken in through food. They are very important for our bodies.