4 Below is the structural formula of coenzyme A, an important biomolecule. (a) Is coenzyme A chiral? (b) Name each functional group in coenzyme A. (c) Would you expect coenzyme A to be soluble in water? Explain. (d) Draw structural formulas for the products of complete hydrolysis of coenzyme A in aqueous HCI. Show each product as it would be ionized in this solution. (e) Draw structural formulas for the products of complete hydrolysis of coenzyme A in aqueous NaOH. Show each product as it would be ionized in this solution.

(a)

Interpretation:

Whether coenzyme A is chiral is to be predicted.

Concept Introduction:

Coenzymes are derived from Vitamins. They are the substance required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body that the body cannot synthesize in adequate amounts. They are non-proteins molecules which help enzymes for catalyzing the reaction.

A carbon atom that has four nonequivalent atoms or groups attached to it is known as chiral carbon atom. Chiral carbon centers are also called as asymmetric or stereogenic centers.

The structure of coenzyme A is shown below.

  Figure 1.

A carbon atom that has four nonequivalent atoms or groups attached to it is known as chiral carbon atom. In coenzyme A, chiral carbon atom is present...

(b)

Interpretation:

The names of each functional group in coenzyme A are to be stated.

Concept Introduction:

Coenzymes are derived from Vitamins. They are the substance required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body that the body cannot synthesize in adequate amounts. They are non-proteins molecules which help enzymes for catalyzing the reaction.

An atom or a group of atoms that show characteristic physical and chemical properties are collectively known as functional groups. The functional group is the most reactive part present in the molecule. The main functional groups are: OH (alcohol group), COOH (carboxylic acid group), CHO (aldehyde group) and C=O (ketone group).

(c)

Interpretation:

An explanation corresponding to the solubility of coenzyme A in water is to be stated.

Concept Introduction:

Coenzymes are derived from Vitamins. They are the substance required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body that the body cannot synthesize in adequate amounts. They are non-proteins molecules which help enzymes for catalyzing the reaction.

(d)

Interpretation:

The structural formulas for the products of the complete hydrolysis of coenzyme A in aqueous HCl solution showing the ionization of each product are to be drawn.

Concept Introduction:

Coenzymes are derived from Vitamins. They are the substance required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body that the body cannot synthesize in adequate amounts. They are non-proteins molecules which help enzymes for catalyzing the reaction.

(e)

Interpretation:

The structural formulas for the products of the complete hydrolysis of coenzyme A in aqueous NaOH solution showing the ionization of each product are to be drawn.

Concept Introduction:

Coenzymes are derived from Vitamins. They are the substance required in small amounts for the normal functioning of the body that the body cannot synthesize in adequate amounts. They are non-proteins molecules which help enzymes for catalyzing the reaction.