Question:

Which of the following is not a basic amino acid?

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Basic amino acids: Lysine (Lys), Arginine (Arg), Histidine (His). Leucine (Leu) is a neutral, nonpolar amino acid.
Updated On: Apr 16, 2026
  • Leucine
  • Lysine
  • Arginine
  • Histidine
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Amino acids are classified based on the nature of their side chain (R-group). Basic amino acids have an additional amino group (\(-NH_2\)) or nitrogen-containing group in their side chain that can accept a proton, making them positively charged at physiological pH.

Step 1:
Identify basic amino acids. The three standard basic amino acids are:
Lysine — contains an extra \(\varepsilon\)-amino group (\(-(CH_2)_4NH_2\))
Arginine — contains a guanidino group (\(-NH-C(NH)NH_2\))
Histidine — contains an imidazole ring (can accept a proton) All three are positively charged at physiological pH.

Step 2:
Check Leucine. Leucine has a nonpolar, aliphatic side chain (\(-CH_2CH(CH_3)_2\)). It contains no additional amino or basic group. It is a neutral (nonpolar) amino acid.

Step 3:
Conclusion. Since Leucine lacks a basic side chain and is not positively charged at physiological pH, it is not a basic amino acid.
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