What are the monomers of proteins? Polymers?

Monomers of Proteins

1. Definition: The monomers of proteins are called amino acids.
2. Structure: Each amino acid consists of a central carbon atom, an amino group (-NH₂), a carboxyl group (-COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a variable R group or side chain that determines the unique characteristics of each amino acid.
3. Types: There are 20 standard amino acids that can be combined in various sequences to form proteins.

Polymers of Proteins

1. Definition: The polymers of proteins are formed by the linkage of multiple amino acids through peptide bonds.
2. Peptide Bonds Formation: The carboxyl group of one amino acid reacts with the amino group of another, releasing a molecule of water (a process known as dehydration synthesis).
3. Protein Structure: These chains fold into specific three-dimensional shapes, and can be classified as primary, secondary, tertiary, or quaternary structures depending on their organization.

In summary, proteins are polymers made of amino acid monomers, linked by peptide bonds, forming complex structures essential for numerous biological functions.