Question:

Identify a side chain (R) group present in serine, an amino acid.

Show Hint

Serine is a \textbf{hydroxyl-containing amino acid}. Always look for the \(-OH\) group in the side chain to identify it quickly in MCQs.
Updated On: Apr 26, 2026
  • \(\text{CH}_3-\)
  • \(\text{H}_3\text{C} - \text{CHOH}-\)
  • \(\text{Me}_2\text{CH}-\)
  • \(\text{HO} - \text{CH}_2-\)
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
Amino acids have a general structure: \[ \text{NH}_2 - \text{CH}(R) - \text{COOH} \] where \(R\) is the side chain that determines the identity and properties of the amino acid. Step 1: Recall the structure of serine. Serine is a polar amino acid with a hydroxyl (\(-OH\)) group in its side chain. Its structure is: \[ \text{NH}_2 - \text{CH}(\text{CH}_2\text{OH}) - \text{COOH} \]
Step 2: Identify the R group. From the structure: \[ R = \text{CH}_2\text{OH} = \text{HO} - \text{CH}_2- \]
Step 3: Match with the given options. Comparing with options:
  • (A) \(\text{CH}_3-\) → present in alanine $\times$
  • (B) \(\text{H}_3\text{C} - \text{CHOH}-\) → not serine $\times$
  • (C) \(\text{Me}_2\text{CH}-\) → present in valine $\times$
  • (D) \(\text{HO} - \text{CH}_2-\) → matches serine \checkmark

Step 4: Conclusion. Hence, the side chain of serine is: \[ \text{HO} - \text{CH}_2- \]
Was this answer helpful?
0
0