Chapter 2, Problem 5CT

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The way through which NASA scientists determine whether the amino acids recovered from space are evidence of Earth-like extraterrestrial life rather than the result of non-metabolic processes.

Introduction:

Monomer units of amino acid cause the formation of proteins that are organic compounds containing residues. Amino acids contain a central carbon atom, a hydrogen atom, an amino group $\left({\text{NH}}_{\text{2}}\right)$ , a carboxyl group $\left(\text{-COOH}\right)$, and an R-group. Protein in cell functions in many ways, such as they work as enzymes, regulate metabolic reactions in the body, transport cell solutes and regulatory functions in the body.