Which option explains why this amino acid can act as both an acid and a base?
1 answer
The option that explains why an amino acid can act as both an acid and a base is because it contains both acidic and basic functional groups. Amino acids have an amino group (-NH2) which can donate a proton (H+) and act as a base, and they also have a carboxyl group (-COOH) which can release a proton and act as an acid. This dual nature allows amino acids to undergo both acid-base reactions, making them amphoteric.