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Identification of amino acids by chromatography
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| Submitted: Thu Jul 11 2002
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Identification of amino acids by chromatography by Introduction Chromatography is a common technique used by biochemists in separating and identifying different amino acids and helps to reveal the function of cell organelles. Chromatography is particularly approved for its accuracy in distinguishing between each compound, which it does by separating the chemicals according to their Relative Molecular Mass (RMM). The term was introduced in 1906 by Mikhail Tswett and is derived from the Greek words 'chromaŽ, meaning colour and 'grapheinŽ, meaning to draw. The most popular type of chromatography employs either absorbent paper, or a dried, thin layer of powder on a glass or plastic base. There are 20 naturally occurring amino acids. The generalised structure of an amino acid is NH2CHRCOOH. This consists of an amine group (NH2), carboxylic acid group (COOH) and a distinctive R group bonded to the ?-carbon atom. The R group (or 'side chainŽ) varies in size,...
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