Here's why:
* Proteins are polymers: They are large molecules made up of many smaller, repeating units called monomers.
* Amino acids are the monomers of proteins: Each protein is a unique chain of amino acids linked together in a specific order.
* There are 20 common amino acids: These amino acids can be combined in different sequences and lengths to create a vast array of proteins with diverse functions.
Think of it like this: Imagine a protein as a long necklace. Each bead on the necklace represents an amino acid. The order and type of beads determine the shape and function of the necklace, just as the order and type of amino acids determine the shape and function of a protein.
