Pectin, which is responsible for the firmness and softness of fruits, is mainly composed of which acid unit?

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SSC CGL 2023 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 25 Jul 2023 Shift 1)
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  1. Aspartic acid
  2. Galacturonic acid
  3. Lactic acid
  4. Glutamic acid

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 2 : Galacturonic acid
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Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is Galacturonic acid.Key Points

  • Pectin is a complex carbohydrate that is found in the cell walls of plants and is responsible for the firmness and softness of fruits.
  • The main acid unit that makes up pectin is galacturonic acid, which is a sugar acid that is derived from glucose.
  • Pectin is made up of complex polysaccharides, which are widely distributed in the green parts of terrestrial plants and found in the primary cell walls of plants.
  • The main element of the middle lamella, where pectin binds cells, is pectin.

Additional Information

  • Aspartic acid is an amino acid that is not found in pectin, but is found in proteins.
    • Lentils, soybeans, garbanzo beans, and other legumes are plant sources of aspartic acid. 
  • Lactic acid is a simple organic acid that is produced by bacteria during fermentation and is not found in pectin.
    • Our body creates lactic acid when our cells digest carbohydrates for energy.
  • Glutamic acid is an amino acid that is not found in pectin, but is found in proteins.
    • It transforms into glutamate inside the body.
    • This substance aids in the transmission and reception of information between brain nerve cells.
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