zwitterioninas

Zwitterioninas are molecules that possess both a positive and a negative electrical charge within the same molecule. These charges are typically located on different atoms, and the molecule as a whole is electrically neutral. The term "zwitterion" comes from the German word "zwitter," meaning "hermaphrodite" or "hybrid," reflecting the dual nature of its charge.

A classic example of a zwitterion is an amino acid. In aqueous solution, the amino group (-NH2) can become protonated to form an ammonium ion (-NH3+), while the carboxyl group (-COOH) can deprotonate to form a carboxylate ion (-COO-). This results in a molecule with a positive charge on the nitrogen atom and a negative charge on the oxygen atom of the carboxylate group. The specific pH at which a molecule exists predominantly as a zwitterion is known as its isoelectric point.

Zwitterionic compounds are found in various biological and chemical systems. Proteins, which are polymers of amino acids, contain numerous zwitterionic residues. Other examples include betaines, which are found in plants and microorganisms, and certain types of surfactants and dyes. The presence of both positive and negative charges influences the solubility, reactivity, and physical properties of zwitterions. They often exhibit high water solubility and can form strong intermolecular interactions due to the electrostatic attractions between oppositely charged groups.