What are the characteristics of amino acids in proteins?


a) Amino acids have a variable side chain (R group) attached to the carbon a.
b) Amino acids can be classified as non-polar, polar, acidic, or basic based on the properties of their side chains.
c) Non-polar amino acids tend to be hydrophobic, while polar amino acids are more hydrophilic.
d) Acidic amino acids have a carboxyl group in their side chains, which dissociates at cellular pH, giving the R group a negative charge.
e) Basic amino acids acquire a positive charge when the amino group in their side chains accepts a hydrogen ion.