Amino Acid Side Chains R Groups) with What Characteristics) Dissolve

Question

Amino acid side chains R groups) with what characteristics) dissolve best in water?
A) at least one ring structure
B) small sizes and simple structures
C) polarity or charged structures
D) the presence of sulfur

Accepted Answer

Amino acid side chains with polar or charged structures dissolve best in water because water is a polar molecule and can interact with polar or charged groups through hydrogen bonding. Amino acid side chains that are non-polar cannot interact with water and therefore are more likely to be found in the hydrophobic interior of a protein or nonpolar solvent.