Description
Grades 9-12. In this experiment, students learn the common chemical structure of amino acids, how amino acids differ in chemical structure, and how amino acids form proteins. Students use chemical tests to classify 5 unknown substances as amino acids or proteins, then identify the particular amino acid in the unknown. Students investigate the optimum conditions for protein digestion in the human body and determine the amount of protein in milk samples they provide. Instructional materials show the complete chemical structure for the 20 common amino acids.
Materials are sufficient for 32 students working in groups of 4.