Questions: Identify the behavior of the following molecule based on its functional group:
It acts as a weak acid and makes molecules more soluble in water.
It acts as a base.
It acts as a strong acid.
It is used to build larger organic molecules.
It aids in protein structure.
Transcript text: Identify the behavior of the following molecule based on its functional group:
It acts as a weak acid and makes molecules more soluble in water.
It acts as a base.
It acts as a strong acid.
It is used to build larger organic molecules.
It aids in protein structure.
Solution
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the Functional Group
The molecule has an -SH group attached to a carbon chain. This functional group is called a sulfhydryl group, characteristic of thiols.
Step 2: Relate Functional Group to Properties
Thiols are similar to alcohols but contain sulfur instead of oxygen. The S-H bond is weaker than the O-H bond in alcohols, making thiols slightly acidic. The sulfhydryl group can also participate in hydrogen bonding with water, increasing the solubility of molecules containing it.
Step 3: Match Properties to Given Options
The provided options that best describe the behavior of a molecule with a sulfhydryl group are that it acts as a weak acid and makes molecules more soluble in water.
Final Answer
It acts as a weak acid and makes molecules more soluble in water.