i dont understand, the formula for serine is NH2CHCH2OHCOOH, but what would it be called....?

Question

if the NH2 group got changed to NH3 (AMMONIA) what would this amino acid be called? does anyone have a answer, or how to name compunds easily???

Answer 1

What you may be referring to is the *zwitterion* form of serine.
IN the zwitterion, the H+ is lost from the -COOH and gained by the NH2, to make an intermediate that has a net neutral charge, but which is electrostatically dipolar. The NH3+ is *not* called an "ammonia" moiety; it is a protonated amino group.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amino_acid#Zwitterions

Answer 2

Count the C atom chain always choosing the longest one. If you have a carboxylic acid as your example, the C from COOH- group will be counted as the first in the chain. Then number the substituent's (i.e. NH2-, OH-, etc) position on the C chain starting with the one closest to the 1st C atom.
In your case you'll have 3 C atoms, NH2- linked on C2 of the chain, OH linked to C3 of the chain, so it becomes 2-amino-3-hydroxy-propionic acid.
If you have the ammonia salt of the propionic acid, you will have ammonium salt of the 2-amino-3-hydroxy-propionic acid: NH3(+)-CH-CH2(OH)-COO(-)

Answer 3

the Nitrogen atom can only have 3 bonds. Currently they are N-H, N-H and C-N. Where would your 3rd N-H go? Changing the NH2 to NH3 isn't possible.

Answer 4

The Nitrogen cannot have 4 bonds.

Answer 5

I can name compounds easily - I start with Alfie, Ben, Chris ... might not suit everyone but it works for me!

Answer 6

very long