Question: What is the basic structure of an amino acid?

Options:

1. A central carbon atom, an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a side chain
2. A central nitrogen atom, a carboxyl group, and a side chain
3. A central carbon atom, two carboxyl groups, and a side chain
4. A central carbon atom, an amino group, and a hydroxyl group

Correct Answer: A central carbon atom, an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a side chain

Solution:

The basic structure of an amino acid includes a central carbon atom, an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a variable side chain (R group).