Question

Which among the following formulae represents the \(\omega\)-amino caproic acid?

• A. \(\mathrm{H_2N-(CH_2)_5-COOH}\)
• B. \(\mathrm{H_2N-CH_2-COOH}\)
• C. \(\mathrm{H_2N-CO-CH_2-CH(NH_2)-COOH}\)
• D. \(\mathrm{HO-CH_2-CH(NH_2)-COOH}\)

Hint:

In \(\omega\)-amino acids, the amino group is always at the terminal carbon of the chain.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Meaning of \(\omega\)-amino acid.
In \(\omega\)-amino acids, the amino group is attached to the terminal carbon atom farthest from the carboxyl group.

Step 2: Structure of caproic acid.
Caproic acid is hexanoic acid, having six carbon atoms.

Step 3: Position of amino group.
For \(\omega\)-amino caproic acid, the –NH\(_2\) group must be attached to the terminal carbon, giving the structure: \[ \mathrm{H_2N-(CH_2)_5-COOH} \]

Step 4: Conclusion.
Option (A) correctly represents \(\omega\)-amino caproic acid.