Which option explains why this amino acid can act as both an acid and a base?

Question

(1 point)
Responses

It contains both an amino functional group and a methyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can decrease acidity, while the methyl group can increase acidity.
It contains both an amino functional group and a methyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can decrease acidity, while the methyl group can increase acidity.

It contains both an amino functional group and a carboxyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can increase acidity, while the carboxyl group can decrease acidity.
It contains both an amino functional group and a carboxyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can increase acidity, while the carboxyl group can decrease acidity.

It contains both an amino functional group and a carboxyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can decrease acidity, while the carboxyl group can increase acidity.
It contains both an amino functional group and a carboxyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can decrease acidity, while the carboxyl group can increase acidity.

It contains both an amino functional group and a methyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can increase acidity, while the methyl group can decrease acidity.

Answer 1

The correct response is:

It contains both an amino functional group and a carboxyl functional group. In a solution, the amino group can increase acidity, while the carboxyl group can decrease acidity.

This is because amino acids typically have both an amino group (-NH2), which can accept protons (acting as a base), and a carboxyl group (-COOH), which can donate protons (acting as an acid). In the context of amino acids, the carboxyl group usually donates a proton, making it acidic, while the amino group can accept a proton, making it basic.