August 24, 2025 | UR Gate
Glycine (C2H5NO2) Structure, Properties and Nomenclature
Discover Glycine (C2H5NO2), the simplest amino acid. Learn its unique structure, key properties, IUPAC name, synonyms, and its vital roles in protein synthesis, neurotransmission.
What is Glycine (C2H5NO2)?
Glycine is the smallest and simplest of all the amino acids, playing a fundamental role in protein synthesis and various biological processes. Its unique structure features a single hydrogen atom as its side chain, making it achiral and allowing it to fit into tight spaces within protein structures. Glycine is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it independently. It acts as both an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, particularly in the spinal cord and brainstem. Furthermore, it's a key component in the synthesis of vital molecules such as creatine, heme, and nucleic acids.
Properties of Glycine (C2H5NO2)
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C₂H₅NO₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 75.07 g/mol |
| Density | 1.16 g/cm³ (at 20°C) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes upon heating (around 233 °C) |
| Melting Point | 233 °C (decomposes) |
| Hybridization | The alpha-carbon atom is sp³ hybridized. |
| Appearance | White crystalline solid |
| Solubility | Highly soluble in water |
Nomenclature of Glycine
- Common name: Glycine
- IUPAC name: 2-aminoacetic acid
Synonyms
- Aminoacetic acid
- Glycocoll
- Aminoethanoic acid
- 2-Aminoacetic acid
- Gly
