Proteins have a primary structure based on the order of amino-acids joined together. Hydrogen bonding between the C=O of one of the peptide bonds and the N-H of another leads to a secondary structure. Bonds formed every 4 amino-acids lead to spiral shapes called alpha-helices and bonds formed between peptide groups further apart leads to folding or β-pleated sheets.
The structure of proteins is suited to their function. Enzymes are biological catalysts and are specific for their substrates which can fit closely into a cleft or active site. This holds the substrates in place in the correct orientation to react.Wool is a helical protein fibre which can stretch because when pulled, the hydrogen bonds stretch.
The structure of proteins is suited to their function. Enzymes are biological catalysts and are specific for their substrates which can fit closely into a cleft or active site. This holds the substrates in place in the correct orientation to react.Wool is a helical protein fibre which can stretch because when pulled, the hydrogen bonds stretch.