Drawing a Generalized Amino Acid
- Step 1: Draw the Alpha Carbon (Cα)
- Place the alpha carbon at the center.
- Label it as Cα or simply C.
- Step 2: Attach the Four Groups
- Position around the alpha carbon (in a tetrahedral arrangement):
- Amine group (-NH₂): Attach to one side.
- Carboxyl group (-COOH): Attach to the opposite side.
- Hydrogen atom (H): Attach above or below the alpha carbon.
- R-group: Attach in the fourth direction (usually represented as "R").
- Position around the alpha carbon (in a tetrahedral arrangement):
The exact spatial arrangement can vary in different representations, but all four groups must be clearly attached to the central alpha carbon.
Common Mistake- Forgetting to label the alpha carbon or misplacing the R-group.
- Always ensure the R-group is shown as variable (not a specific side chain unless specified).
- What are the four groups attached to the alpha carbon of an amino acid?
- Draw a generalized amino acid with all four groups labeled.
