Question:

The list given below contains essential amino acids that are basic (\(X\)) and also non essential amino acids that are neutral \(Y\). \(X\) and \(Y\) respectively are:
• [a)] Lysine
• [b)] Alanine
• [c)] Serine
• [d)] Arginine
• [e)] Tyrosine

Show Hint

To remember the basic amino acids instantly, use the mnemonic "HAL" (Histidine, Arginine, Lysine). Since Lysine (\(a\)) and Arginine (\(d\)) are the main basic amino acids from this list, grouping them together under category \(X\) lets you lock down the correct answer choice immediately!
Updated On: Jun 3, 2026
  • \( X = b, c, e \quad Y = a, d \)
  • \( X = a, d \quad Y = b, c, e \)
  • \( X = a \quad Y = b, d, e \)
  • \( X = a, b, c \quad Y = d, e \)
Show Solution
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Amino acids are classified based on two main criteria:
• Nutritional Requirement:
• Essential Amino Acids: Cannot be synthesized by the body and must be supplied in the diet (e.g., Lysine, Arginine, Valine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Threonine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Tryptophan, Histidine).
• Non-Essential Amino Acids: Can be synthesized by the body internally (e.g., Alanine, Serine, Tyrosine, Glycine, Aspartic acid, Glutamic acid).
• Chemical Nature (Side chain properties):
• Basic Amino Acids: Contain extra amino groups (\(-\text{NH}_2\)) relative to carboxyl groups in their side chains, giving them a net positive charge at physiological pH (e.g., Lysine, Arginine, Histidine).
• Neutral Amino Acids: Contain an equal number of amino and carboxyl groups, and their side chains do not carry a net charge (e.g., Alanine, Serine, Tyrosine, Glycine, Valine).

Step 1:
Evaluating category \(X\): Essential and basic amino acids.
Let's analyze the given options for set \(X\):
a) Lysine: It is an essential amino acid and contains an extra \((-\text{NH}_2)\) group in its aliphatic side chain. Thus, it is basic.
d) Arginine: It is an essential (semi-essential) amino acid and contains a highly basic guanidino group in its side chain. Thus, it is basic. Therefore, \(X = \{a, d\}\).

Step 2:
Evaluating category \(Y\): Non-essential and neutral amino acids.
Let's analyze the remaining options for set \(Y\):
b) Alanine: Synthesized naturally by the body (non-essential) and features a simple methyl group side chain (neutral).
c) Serine: Synthesized by the body (non-essential) and features a polar hydroxymethyl side chain (neutral).
e) Tyrosine: Formed from phenylalanine inside the body (non-essential) and contains a phenolic side chain that is uncharged at physiological pH (neutral). Therefore, \(Y = \{b, c, e\}\). Combining both results yields the set configuration: \(X = a, d\) and \(Y = b, c, e\), which corresponds perfectly to option (B).
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