Question

the diagram below shows part of a molecule that is found in proteins. when placed in water, the molecule bends to form the structure on the right. which statements correctly describe this molecule? select all that apply. the structure on the left releases a proton (h^+) when placed in water. the structure on the left is an acid. the structure on the left is a base. the structure on the left accepts a proton (h^+) when placed in water.

Explanation:

• A base is a substance that can accept a proton (\(H^+\)). The structure on the left has an \(-NH_2\) group. In water (\(H_2O\)), the \(-NH_2\) group can act as a base. The reaction is \(NH_2^-+H_2O

ightleftharpoons NH_3^++OH^-\). So, the structure on the left accepts a proton (\(H^+\)) when placed in water and is a base.

• An acid is a substance that donates a proton (\(H^+\)). Since the structure on the left accepts a proton (as shown by the formation of \(NH_3^+\) from \(NH_2^-\) in water), it is not an acid and does not release a proton.

Answer:

• The structure on the left is a base.
• The structure on the left accepts a proton (\(H^+\)) when placed in water.