Zwitterion
| Also Known As | Inner salt, dipolar ion, amphoteric ion, amino acid neutral form |
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What is Zwitterion?
A zwitterion (also called an inner salt or dipolar ion) is a molecule that has both a positive and a negative electrical charge simultaneously, but is electrically neutral overall. Amino acids in their neutral form (at pH near their isoelectric point) exist as zwitterions — the carboxyl group loses a proton (−COO⁻) and the amino group gains a proton (−NH₃⁺). The term comes from the German "Zwitter" meaning hybrid or hermaphrodite.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A zwitterion (also called an inner salt or dipolar ion) is a molecule that has both a positive and a negative electrical charge simultaneously, but is electrically neutral overall. Amino acids in their neutral form (at pH near their isoelectric point) exist as zwitterions — the carboxyl group loses a proton (−COO⁻) and the amino group gains a proton (−NH₃⁺). The term comes from the German "Zwitter" meaning hybrid or hermaphrodite.
Amino acid chemistry and protein structure. Isoelectric focusing (protein separation). Buffer solutions near pI. Understanding protein solubility and precipitation. Biological membrane zwitterionic lipids (phosphatidylcholine). Pharmaceutical formulation. Amphoteric surfactants (betaines).
Amino acids as zwitterions are biologically essential and non-toxic. Zwitterionic surfactants (betaines): low irritation profile. Safety depends on specific zwitterion.