Which component makes each amino acid unique

Subject : Biology

Question:

Which component makes each amino acid unique? amino group carboxyl group R group phosphate group

Expert Verified Solution:

The Correct Answer: The R group makes each amino acid unique by determining its specific chemical properties and characteristics.

Description: The component that makes each amino acid unique is the R group (also known as the side chain). While all amino acids have a common structure consisting of an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a hydrogen atom bonded to a central carbon atom, it is the R group that varies among the 20 different amino acids. This R group can range from a simple hydrogen atom to more complex structures, and it determines the chemical properties and behavior of the amino acid, such as whether it is polar, nonpolar, acidic, or basic.