(Solved): A naturally occurring amino acid such as alanine has a group that is a carboxylic acid and a group ...

A naturally occurring amino acid such as alanine has a group that is a carboxylic acid and a group that is a protonated amine. The $p{K}_a$ values of the two groups are shown. a. If the $\mathrm{p}{K}_{\mathrm{a}}$ value of carboxylic acid such as acetic acid is about 5 (see Table 2.19), then why is the $p{K}_{\mathrm{a}}$ value of the carboxylic acid group of alanine so much lower? b. Draw the structure of alanine in a solution at $\mathrm{pH}=0$. c. Draw the structure of alanine in a solution at physiological $\mathrm{pH}(\mathrm{pH}7.4)$. d. Draw the structure of alanine in a solution at $\mathrm{pH}=12$. e. Is there a pH at which alanine will be uncharged (that is, neither group will have a charge)?