Consider the following reaction:
Reactions 1 and 2 can be respectively characterized as:
A. peptide bond formation, nucleophilic acyl addition
B. polymerization, hydrolysis
C. hydrolysis, peptide bond formation
D. nucleophilic addition, hydrolysis
Click for Explanation
The reaction depicted shows two alanine molecules forming a peptide bond. The process of combining monomers, such as amino acids, into polymers, such as polypeptides is called polymerization. Reaction 2 shows the reverse reaction with water being used to break a peptide bond. Using water to break a bond can be described as hydrolysis. Thus (B) is the correct answer.
A: While reaction 1 is peptide bond formation, the reverse reaction is not an addition reaction. In addition reactions two molecules combine. Here, reaction 2 shows one large molecule being broken down.
C: These are the right labels, but applied backwards.
D: Reaction 2 is hydrolysis, but reaction 1 is not a nucleophilic addition; it’s a substitution reaction. The OH group is being substituted for the amino group of the amino acid on the right. Thus, this is a nucleophilic acyl substitution.
Want more MCAT practice?
We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!
From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!
Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.
Related Post
Search the Blog
Free Consultation
Interested in our Online MCAT Course or one of our One-on-One MCAT Tutoring packages? Set up a free consultation with one of our experienced Academic Managers!
Schedule NowPopular Posts
-
MCAT Blog How To Prep For The MCAT During COVID-19 -
-
-
MCAT Blog How is the MCAT Scored? -
MCAT Blog Should You Retake the MCAT? -
-
Free MCAT Practice Account
Need great MCAT practice?Get the most representative MCAT practice possible when you sign up for our free MCAT Account, which includes a half-length diagnostic exam and one of our full-length MCAT practice exams.
Learn More
Submit a Comment