Have two quick questions...

Why does denatured protein precipitate? (when heated, why does it give that poached egg look? I know heat denatures protein, but why does it look like that? something to do with bonds?)

And also... why does protein denature in heat?

Thanks!

1 answer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denaturation_(biochemistry)
Basically, the protein loses its structure; therefore, its physical and chemical characteristics.