Answer: The 5 things amino acids and proteins have in common are:
1. Building blocks: Both amino acids and proteins are essential in the construction of living organisms. Amino acids are the individual units that make up proteins. Proteins, on the other hand, are complex molecules formed by linking together multiple amino acids through peptide bonds.
2. Role in biological processes: Amino acids and proteins play vital roles in various biological processes. They are involved in protein synthesis, enzyme function, cell signaling, immune response, and transportation of molecules within the body.
3. Contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen: Both amino acids and proteins contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen atoms. In addition, some amino acids may also contain sulfur atoms.
4. Diversity: Amino acids and proteins exhibit a high degree of diversity. There are 20 different types of amino acids commonly found in proteins, each with a unique side chain. This diversity allows for the formation of an immense variety of proteins, each with distinct structures and functions.
5. Essential for life: Both amino acids and proteins are crucial for the survival and proper functioning of living organisms. Proteins are involved in nearly every biological process, including growth, repair, and maintenance of cells and tissues. Amino acids are necessary for the synthesis of proteins and are also used in various metabolic pathways throughout the body.
Overall, amino acids and proteins are interconnected components of life, with amino acids serving as the building blocks for proteins, and proteins carrying out essential functions within the body.