Question

Why do amino acids show amphoteric behaviour?

Hint:

Amino acids exist as zwitterions in aqueous solution, containing both positive and negative charges.

Answer 1

Step 1: Amino acids have both a carboxylic acid group (–COOH) and an amino group (–NH₂).
Step 2: The –COOH group can donate a proton (H\(^+\)) and act as an acid, while the –NH₂ group can accept a proton and act as a base.
Step 3: Due to the presence of both acidic and basic groups, amino acids can react with both acids and bases, hence they show amphoteric behaviour.