ZWITTERION Meaning and
Definition
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A zwitterion is a chemical species that possesses both positive and negative charges within its molecular structure, resulting in overall neutrality. The term "zwitterion" is derived from the German word "zwitter," which means hermaphrodite or hybrid. Zwitterions are commonly observed in biochemistry and organic chemistry, particularly in amino acids, peptides, and proteins.
At a molecular level, zwitterions demonstrate the presence of both acidic and basic functional groups. A typical example of a zwitterion is the amino acid glycine, which contains an amino group (-NH₂) that behaves as a base, and a carboxyl group (-COOH) that acts as an acid. In glycine, the amino group donates a proton to the carboxyl group, resulting in the formation of an internal salt bridge. This internal neutralization of charges transforms the molecule into a zwitterion.
Zwitterions possess unique properties due to their dual charge nature. They are typically highly soluble in water, as the polar water molecules can interact with the charged groups. Zwitterions also exhibit an increased stability compared to their charged or uncharged counterparts, as the internal neutralization reduces their reactivity.
Furthermore, the formation of zwitterions plays a crucial role in the functioning of biological systems. For instance, zwitterionic structures in proteins contribute to their structure and function, such as the stabilization of alpha-helices and interaction with ligands. Additionally, zwitterionic compounds are widely used in various scientific and industrial applications, including drug delivery systems, biomaterials, and chromatography.
Common Misspellings for ZWITTERION
- xwitterion
- switterion
- awitterion
- zqitterion
- zaitterion
- zsitterion
- zeitterion
- z3itterion
- z2itterion
- zwutterion
- zwjtterion
- zwktterion
- zwotterion
- zw9tterion
- zw8tterion
- zwirterion
- zwifterion
- zwigterion
- zwiyterion
- zwi6terion
Etymology of ZWITTERION
The word "zwitterion" is derived from the German term "Zwitter", meaning hermaphrodite or hybrid, and the suffix "-ion", which indicates an ion or charged particle. The term was coined by the German biochemist Emil Fischer in the late 19th century to describe chemical species that possess both positive and negative charges. It is mostly used to refer to molecules or compounds that can exist as both a cation (positively charged) and an anion (negatively charged) simultaneously.
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