The water soluble protein is
(a) fibrin
(b) albumin
(c) myosin
(d) collagen

Q: Why are fibrous proteins insoluble in water?

Fibrous proteins have long, thread-like structures where the polypeptide chains are held tightly together by strong intermolecular forces like hydrogen bonds and disulfide bridges. This rigid, tightly packed structure prevents water molecules from interacting with the protein chains, making them insoluble.

Q: Are all globular proteins soluble in water?

Most globular proteins are soluble in water. This is because they fold in a way that exposes their hydrophilic (water-attracting) amino acid residues to the outside environment, allowing them to interact favorably with water molecules.

Q: What is the primary function of albumin in the body?

Serum albumin is the most abundant protein in human blood plasma. It plays a crucial role in regulating the osmotic pressure of blood and acts as a carrier protein, transporting hormones, fatty acids, and other compounds.

Q: I always confuse the examples of fibrous and globular proteins. Is there a trick?

Think about their functions! Fibrous proteins usually form structural components (like hair, nails, muscles, and tendons), which need to be tough and insoluble. Globular proteins usually perform dynamic functions in aqueous environments (like enzymes, hormones, and transport proteins in blood), so they need to be soluble.

Q: Is keratin a globular or fibrous protein?

Keratin is a classic example of a fibrous protein. It is the key structural material making up hair, nails, feathers, and the outer layer of human skin, and it is highly insoluble in water.

Question

The water soluble protein is

Options:

(A) fibrin

(B) albumin

(C) myosin

(D) collagen

Sigma Percentile · Accepted Answer

The study of biomolecules introduces us to the fascinating world of proteins, the building blocks of life. In this problem, we are asked to identify the water-soluble protein among a given set of options. To solve this, we need to understand the fundamental classification of proteins based on their molecular shape.

### Globular vs. Fibrous Proteins

Proteins are broadly classified into two main categories based on their three-dimensional structure: **fibrous proteins** and **globular proteins**.

**Fibrous Proteins:** When the polypeptide chains run parallel and are held together by hydrogen and disulfide bonds, a fiber-like structure is formed. These proteins are generally **insoluble in water**. They serve structural roles in the body. Common examples include keratin (found in hair, wool, and silk), myosin (found in muscles), collagen (found in connective tissues), and fibrin (involved in blood clotting).

**Globular Proteins:** This structure results when the chains of polypeptides coil around to give a spherical shape. These are usually **soluble in water** because their hydrophilic (water-loving) amino acid side chains are pushed outwards, while the hydrophobic (water-fearing) ones are tucked inside. They perform various metabolic and regulatory functions. Common examples include insulin and albumin.

### Analyzing the Options

Let's evaluate the given options based on our understanding:

1. **Fibrin:** This is a fibrous protein involved in the clotting of blood. Being fibrous, it is insoluble in water.
2. **Myosin:** This is a motor protein found in muscle fibers, responsible for muscle contraction. It is a fibrous protein and thus insoluble in water.
3. **Collagen:** This is the main structural protein in the extracellular matrix found in the body's various connective tissues. It is highly fibrous and insoluble in water.
4. **Albumin:** This is a family of globular proteins, the most common of which are serum albumin (found in blood) and ovalbumin (found in egg whites). Because it is a globular protein, it is **soluble in water**.

### The Final Verdict

From our analysis, it is clear that fibrin, myosin, and collagen are all fibrous proteins that do not dissolve in water. Albumin, on the other hand, is a globular protein and is highly water-soluble. Therefore, albumin is the correct answer.

Remembering these classic examples is crucial for tackling such fact-based questions in exams like JEE and NEET!

Animated Solution for Chemistry - Organic Chemistry: The water soluble protein is

Select Answer:

Visualized Solution

Classification of Proteins

Analyzing the Options

Final Conclusion

The Sigma Insight: Biomolecules

Globular vs

Analyzing the Options

The Final Verdict

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