Which of the following functional groups is NOT present in Aspartame?
Show Hint
To identify functional groups, look for key structural features: esters contain –COO–, amides have –CONH–, carboxylic acids have –COOH, and aldehydes contain –CHO.
Step 1: Aspartame's Composition
Aspartame, a synthetic sweetener, is made from two amino acids:
Aspartic acid
Phenylalanine methyl ester
Step 2: Recognize Key Functional Groups
Aspartame's structure includes these functional groups:
Ester group – from the phenylalanine methyl ester
Amide group – from the peptide bond (–CONH–)
Carboxylic acid group – found in aspartic acid
Step 3: Confirm Absence of a Specific Group
Aspartame lacks an aldehyde group (–CHO). Aldehydes are present in substances like formaldehyde or glucose, but not in Aspartame.
\[
\boxed{\text{Aldehyde is NOT present in Aspartame.}}
\]