The naturally occurring amino acid that contains only one basic functional group in its chemical structure is

Question

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Analysis of basic functional groups in each amino acid:

Asparagine (Asn, N):
- Side chain: –CH₂–CO–NH₂ (amide group)
- The amide group is not basic (pKa ≈ not titratable under physiological conditions)
- Has only the -amino group (–NH₂) as the basic group → only ONE basic functional group ✓

Histidine (His, H):
- Side chain: imidazole ring with two nitrogen atoms (one basic, pKa ≈ 6.0)
- Has -amino group + imidazole nitrogen → two basic groups

Arginine (Arg, R):
- Side chain: guanidinium group

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