Step 1: Understanding the Concept
An \(\alpha\)-amino acid has the general formula \(\text{H}_2\text{N-CHR-COOH}\).
Step 2: Groups present
The \(\alpha\)-carbon carries an amino group \((\text{NH}_2)\), a carboxyl group \((\text{COOH})\), a hydrogen and a side chain R. R differs from one amino acid to another, and a methyl group occurs only in some.
Step 3: Conclusion
In solution the two groups exchange a proton to form a zwitterion. So the functional groups of an amino acid are COOH and \(\text{NH}_2\) together.
Final Answer:
An amino acid contains both COOH and NH2 groups.
\[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{COOH and NH}_2} \]