AAMC FL Practice Exam

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Study for the AAMC FL Exam. Prepare with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each equipped with hints and explanations. Gear up for your medical school entrance exam!

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What is the average molecular weight of an amino acid?

150 Da
110 Da
200 Da
90 Da

The correct answer is: 110 Da

The average molecular weight of an amino acid is commonly recognized to be around 110 Da (Daltons). This figure is derived from considering the typical structure of amino acids, which consist of a central carbon atom, an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a variable R group or side chain. Taking into account the average compositions of these groups, along with the standard representation of twenty commonly occurring amino acids, the average molecular weight is calculated. The molecular weight can vary slightly depending on the specific amino acid due to the presence and nature of different side chains, but 110 Da is a widely accepted average for purposes of general biochemical calculations. This knowledge is particularly relevant in fields such as biochemistry and molecular biology, where understanding the properties of amino acids is critical for grasping protein structures and functions.