5.4 summary

Proteins function in our cells.

-A protein is a polymer that is constructed from a set of 20 different monomers known as amino acids. 

-An amino acid monomer consists of a central carbon atoms that is covalent bonds to four other atoms or molecules.

-Polypeptide is a chain of proteins linked by amino acids. Most polypeptide chains are at least 100 amino acids in length.

-Denaturation is a process in which an unfavorable change in the environment has caused a protein to unravel and loose its normal shape.

Picture of protein foods, from http://www.dkimages.com/discover/ previews/836/965507.JPG

Concept Check

1. Give at least two example of proteins you can "see" in the world around you. What are their functions?
Two examples of proteins that you can see around you is hair/fur and muscles. Hair/fur keeps an animal warm and gives it texture. Muscles help you move to catch prey and find foods.
2. Relate amino acids, polypeptides, and proteins. 
Amino acids is a central carbon atom bonded to four different atoms through covalent bonds, polypeptides are chains of amino acids and proteins are polymers also made of amino acids. 
3. Explain how heat can destroy a protein.
It can destroy a protein by changing the environment around a protein causing it to unravel and loose its normal shape.
4. Which parts of an amino acid's structure are the same in all amino acids? Which part is unique? 

Three of the carbon's partners are the same in all amino acids.