Question

1. the spiral coil of an α - helix is held together by:

(1 point) *
○ a) ionic bonds
○ b) peptide bonds
○ c) hydrogen bonds
○ d) covalent bonds

Explanation:

In the context of protein structure, the α - helix is a common secondary structure. Ionic bonds involve the transfer of electrons between ions and are not the main force holding the α - helix. Peptide bonds are covalent bonds that link amino acids in a polypeptide chain (primary structure). Covalent bonds are strong bonds formed by sharing electrons. Hydrogen bonds, on the other hand, are relatively weak bonds. In an α - helix, hydrogen bonds form between the carbonyl oxygen of one amino acid and the amide hydrogen of an amino acid four residues further along the chain. These hydrogen bonds are responsible for maintaining the spiral coil structure of the α - helix.

Answer:

C. Hydrogen bonds