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NEET levelSingle correct optionDifficulty 1 of 3bm252

At its isoelectric point the amino acid shown exists mainly as a zwitterion. Which of Structures A to D represents this form?

  1. AStructure A
  2. BStructure B
  3. CStructure C
  4. DStructure D

Answer: C

A zwitterion has a protonated amino group () and a deprotonated carboxylate (), with no net charge. The all-neutral drawing is not the actual form in water; the other two carry a net +1 or -1 charge. The amino acid is L-serine.
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