Overview
This lecture addressed questions about quiz procedures, strategies for memorizing amino acids, and clarified how certain amino acids will be presented on quizzes. The session also included a brief community update and announcements.
Pop Quiz Procedure
- Download the quiz Word document from the chat.
- Highlight correct answers (or delete wrong ones), save, and email it to the instructor.
Amino Acids: Naming and Differentiation
- Lysine is represented by "K" and arginine by "R"; mnemonic devices can be helpful for memorization.
- Aspartate/aspartic acid and glutamate/glutamic acid terms are used interchangeably in this class (no need to distinguish protonation state).
- On quizzes, you won’t need to tell the difference between protonated/deprotonated forms of aspartate/glutamate.
- Glutamic acid has one more carbon in its side chain than aspartic acid.
- The instructor generally won’t list aspartic acid and glutamic acid together as quiz options.
- Arginine and lysine may both appear as quiz options; practice distinguishing these.
- Q = glutamine, N = asparagine; difference is one carbon in side chain length.
- It is unlikely you will need to distinguish between glutamine and asparagine on quizzes.
Memorization Strategies
- Use flashcards, repetition, and practice to learn amino acids.
- Mnemonics and peer suggestions can aid in memorization.
Community & Announcements
- Students are encouraged to network and share positive news.
- Peer support is recommended, especially for new students and those applying to professional schools.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Aspartate/Aspartic Acid — Amino acid, terms used interchangeably here.
- Glutamate/Glutamic Acid — Amino acid, terms used interchangeably here.
- Lysine (K) — Amino acid, mnemonic: “K for knife.”
- Arginine (R) — Amino acid, mnemonic: “R for arch.”
- Glutamine (Q) — Amino acid, differs from asparagine by one carbon.
- Asparagine (N) — Amino acid, one carbon shorter than glutamine.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Complete the Word quiz as instructed and submit via email.
- Use recommended memorization techniques to study amino acids.
- Reach out to peers for study support and to share updates.