Question

The three-dimensional coordinates of atoms within a folded protein are determined experimentally. After researchers obtain a protein's structural details, they can use different techniques to highlight particular aspects of the structure. What visual model best displays a protein's secondary structures (α helices and β sheets)?

(a) ribbon
(b) space-filling
(c) backbone
(d) wire

Answer 1

The ribbon model is best suited for visualizing the secondary structures of proteins, such as α helices and β sheets, by clearly representing the folding patterns.

Step-by-step explanation:

The visual model that best displays a protein's secondary structures, such as α helices and β sheets, is the ribbon model. Ribbon models clearly depict the path and directionality of the protein backbone, emphasizing the coil of α helices and the alignment of strands in β sheets, often shown as arrows. This representation simplifies the complex three-dimensional structure, highlighting the overall folding pattern without the clutter of side chains or atoms, making it easier to understand the arrangement and interactions within the secondary structure of proteins.