Skip to content

Proteins

Mediumchemistry

Which level of protein structure is maintained primarily by hydrogen bonds between backbone C=O and N–H groups?

Select the correct option:

🔒 Solution Hidden from View

Submit your answer to unlock the detailed step-by-step solution.

About This Question

Subject
chemistry
Chapter
biomolecules
Topic
proteins
Difficulty
Medium
Year
2025
Tags
ProteinsSecondary StructureAlpha HelixHydrogen Bond

Solution

Correct Answer:

Secondary structure

The secondary structure of a protein (α-helix, β-pleated sheet) is stabilised by hydrogen bonds formed between the carbonyl oxygen (C=O) and the amino hydrogen (N–H) of the peptide backbone at regular intervals. Primary structure is defined by covalent peptide bonds. Tertiary structure involves interactions among R-groups (disulphide bridges, hydrophobic, ionic and H-bonds between side chains). Quaternary structure is the association of multiple polypeptide subunits.

This medium difficulty chemistry question is from the chapter biomolecules, covering the topic of proteins. It appeared in the 2025 exam.

Looking for more practice? Explore all chemistry questions or browse biomolecules questions on RankGuru.