Question

The helix that forms in a protein chain as a result of hydrogen bonds and other weak forces is an example of
A) primary structure of protein.
B) secondary structure of protein.
C) tertiary structure of protein.
D) non-linear structure of protein.

Answer is B..but can someone explain it to me ?

Answer 1

C)

Answer 2

The alpha helices are actually secondary structural elements of proteins.

Protein 'structure' has levels. The first level is the sequence of the protein itself. Think of a completely denatured protein in the solution. Secondary structural elements are formed by local interactions of that polypeptide chain. Popular examples are helices and beta sheets. These in turn interact with each other to form tertiary structures - for example, a bundle of alpha helices wound into bigger helices. Then these folded proteins interact with other folded proteins to form larger assemblies and these are fourth order structures.

In very general terms. Kudos to anyone asking protein problems!

Answer 3

I'm afraid I'm going to have to disagree with heena - I just had a look at Wikipedia and secondary structure refers to the alpha helices and beta sheets, whereas tertiary structure refers to the exact atomic locations. Just for completeness, primary structure is sequence of amino acids whereas quaternary structure is to do with how molecules (usually folded proteins) fit together in complexes.

Answer 4

y u afraiding i m t a dracula and its not necessary that i m always rit ok.. and here i belief we r on OS to make each other right i if dey make mistake i guess . so be happy

Answer 5

Thanks for the message - it was just me being polite, being new to OS and a bit old World / old school