Problem 89 Alanine, abbreviated HAla, is an... [FREE SOLUTION] (2025)

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Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, crucial for various biological functions in living organisms. Each amino acid consists of:

• An amino group \(-NH_2\)
• A carboxyl group \(-COOH\)
• A side chain, which makes each amino acid unique

These compounds are essential for the synthesis of proteins and other important molecules like enzymes and neurotransmitters.
In biochemical processes, amino acids can act as energy sources, precursors for biosynthesis, and perform other central roles in metabolism. Alanine, as discussed in this exercise, is one such amino acid, important for protein formation and energy production.

A neutralization reaction is a chemical reaction where an acid and a base react to form water and a salt. The general formula for this process is:\[ \text{H}^+ + \text{OH}^- \rightarrow \text{H}_2\text{O} \]

• Acids provide hydrogen ions \((H^+)\)
• Bases provide hydroxide ions \((OH^-)\)

This reaction is essential in various fields, including medicine and environmental science.
In the context of our exercise, alanine (HAla), which contains an acidic group, reacts with \(ext{NaOH}\) (a base) to achieve neutralization. Here, one mole of \(ext{NaOH}\) neutralizes one mole of alanine, illustrating a key aspect of neutralization reactions involving equal molar quantities.

Alanine (HAla) is a simple, yet important amino acid with the chemical formula \(\text{C}_3\text{H}_7\text{NO}_2\). It is classified as a non-essential amino acid, meaning that our bodies can produce it without consuming it through the diet.
In metabolic contexts, alanine plays a part in the glucose-alanine cycle, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and remove ammonia, a toxic substance.

• It's involved in the synthesis of proteins.
• Acts as a key transporter of nitrogen in the bloodstream.
• Can be converted into pyruvate in metabolic processes.

Through the exercise in this topic, we calculate the molar mass of alanine by neutralizing it with a known concentration of \(\text{NaOH}\), demonstrating its role in chemical reactions.