Question

(b) Amino acids show amphoteric behaviour, why?

Hint:

Amino acids can exist in different ionic forms (zwitterions) depending on the pH, where the amino group is protonated (\( NH_3^+ \)) and the carboxyl group is deprotonated (\( COO^- \)).

Answer 1

Amino acids show amphoteric behavior because they have both acidic and basic functional groups. The amino group (\( -NH_2 \)) can act as a base and accept protons, while the carboxyl group (\( -COOH \)) can donate protons, acting as an acid. This dual capability allows amino acids to react both as acids and bases, depending on the pH of the solution, demonstrating amphoteric behavior.