Question

10. Define the following terms. a. Isoelectric Point. b. Zwitterion.

Answer 1

a)

Isoelectric point:

The pH at which the zwitterion form of an amino acid predominates in solution is known as isoelectric point, at this pH, the molecule, does not migrate in an electric field. At a pH abovee isoelectric point, the molecule migrates to the anode and below the isoelectric point, to the cathode For eg- the isoelectric point of glycine is pl- 6.03

b) Zwitterion:

A zwitterion is a form of an amino acid where the amine group is protonated and the carboxyl group is deprotonated. Zwitterion of alanine is: H3C, CHC H3N Zwitter ion of alanine