L05 AA ionization and protein structure_SP25_BMM after

Ionization

The process by which an atom or molecule gains or loses electrons to form ions.

pKa

The negative logarithm of the acid dissociation constant (Ka), providing a measure of an acid's strength.

Titration Curve

A graph that shows how the pH of a solution changes as a titrant is added, illustrating the relationship between pH, pKa, and protonation.

Peptide Bond

A bond formed between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another, resulting in a chain of amino acids.

Primary Structure

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Conjugate Base

The species that remains after an acid has donated a proton.

Protonation

The addition of a proton (H+) to a molecule, resulting in an increase in positive charge.

Deprotonation

The removal of a proton (H+) from a molecule, which often results in a negative charge.

Le Chatelier's Principle

A principle stating that if an equilibrium system is subjected to a change in concentration, temperature, or pressure, the system will adjust to counteract the change.

Surface Charge

The net electrical charge on the surface of a molecule, which can change based on pH and ionization states.

Amino Acid

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, typically consisting of a central carbon atom, an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable R group.

Functional Groups

Specific groups of atoms within molecules that determine the characteristics and chemical reactivity of those molecules.

Acid Strength

A measurement of an acid's ability to donate protons, often indicated by the pKa value.

Equivalence Point

The point in a titration at which the acid has been completely neutralized by the base.

Net Charge

The total charge of a molecule, determined by the balance of positive and negative charges.

Ionizable Groups

Chemical groups in a molecule that can lose or gain protons, influencing the molecule's charge and behavior in different pH conditions.