Question

Among the following, which one of them is not the correct match? (a) indigo (azo dye) (b) keratin (protein) (c) lipase (ester) (d) silk (polyamide)

Short answer

(c) lipase is incorrectly matched with 'ester'.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Exercise

The exercise asks us to identify the option that is not correctly matched with its associated category. Each option lists a substance followed by its corresponding category.

Analyze Each Option

Review the matching of the substance to its category: (a) Indigo is a type of dye, specifically known for being an organic compound derived from plants. However, it is not an 'azo dye', which are dyes characterized by the presence of an azo group (N=N). (b) Keratin is a type of protein commonly found in hair, nails, and skin, and this match is correct. (c) Lipase is an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of fats (lipids) and is not classified as an 'ester'. (d) Silk is known as a natural polyamide, being composed of protein structures known as fibroin, and it matches this category correctly.

Identify the Incorrect Match

The task is to find the incorrect match from the given options. Upon review, option (c) lipase is incorrectly matched with 'ester' as lipase is an enzyme, not an ester.

Conclusion

The incorrect match here is (c) lipase as it is not an ester, but an enzyme.

Key concepts

Proteins

Proteins are complex molecules made up of strings of amino acids. They play a crucial role in almost every biological process. One well-known protein is keratin, which is found in hair, nails, and the outer skin layers.
Proteins are not only the building blocks of muscles and tissues; they also help in chemical reactions, defend against infections, and transport molecules throughout the body.

• Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, can link in various arrangements to form different proteins, each with a unique function.
• Proteins can be structural, like collagen, or functional, like enzymes and antibodies.
• The sequence and structure of proteins determine their role and function in the body.

Given their diversity and crucial roles, proteins are often referred to as the "workhorses" of the cell, tirelessly performing multiple tasks to keep the organism functioning smoothly.

Enzymes

Enzymes are special proteins that act as catalysts in biological reactions, meaning they speed up processes without being consumed by them. For instance, lipase is an enzyme, not an ester, and it facilitates the breakdown of fats in our digestive system.
Enzymes are essential for life because most biochemical reactions would be too slow without them, making it incredibly important to understand their function in both health and diseases.

• Each enzyme is specific to a particular chemical reaction or group of related reactions.
• Enzymes work by lowering the activation energy required, making the reaction occur faster.
• Factors such as temperature, pH, and concentration influence enzyme activity.

Without enzymes, tasks like digestion, DNA replication, and energy production in cells would be inefficient or impossible, highlighting their vital role in all living organisms.

Organic Compounds

Organic compounds are chemical substances that contain carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen, and possibly other elements. They are the basis of all life on earth due to their complex structures and diverse functions.
Indigo is an example of an organic compound that is famous for its deep blue color but not belonging to the 'azo dye' category. Azo dyes are characterized by the presence of an azo group (N=N), unlike indigo.

• The versatility of carbon allows organic compounds to form chains, rings, and branches, leading to a variety of substances.
• Common categories include carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
• These compounds are involved in numerous biological processes and are also manufactured for various industrial applications.

Understanding organic compounds is fundamental not only in biology and chemistry but also in developing materials and medicines, showcasing their extensive impact on multiple fields.

Dyes

Dyes are intensely colored substances used to color textiles, food, and other materials by absorbing certain wavelengths of light. They consist of various chemical compounds, including both natural and synthetic types.
Indigo, a natural dye, has been used for centuries to produce iconic blue colors in fabrics. However, not all dyes are made the same way. Azo dyes, for instance, include a specific chemical group (N=N) that differentiates them from other dye types.

• Dyes can be sourced from natural materials like plants and insects, or they can be synthesized in laboratories.
• Synthetic dyes are usually more vibrant and stable, making them popular in modern textiles and art.
• The process of dyeing involves applying and fixing the dye to the material through various chemical processes.

Dyes play a crucial role in industries ranging from fashion to food, requiring a deep understanding of their chemical properties to apply them effectively and safely.