DMSP is dimethyl sulphoniopropionate. Do you know its formula? Where is the sulphonio-group attached?

Question

DMSP plays a role in the metabolism of algae with subsequent important repercussions in ecology.

Answer 1

Hmmm, that is not a compound that would probably be covered in orgo class.

The propioante refers to a 3 carbon carboxylate (the conjuagate base of a carboxylic acid). Sulphonio means that the 3-C carboxlate has a sulfur attached to it. Since it is "dimethyl" sulphonio, there are two methyl groups attached to the sulfur. Putting it all together, you get (please ignore the dots, they are place holders):


CH3
........S-CH2-CH2-COO-
CH3

or (CH3)2SCH2CH2COO-

Answer 2

Well U better check it on www.iupac.org