What are amino acids primarily known as?

Amino acids are fundamentally known as the basic building blocks of proteins. Each amino acid consists of an amino group, a carboxyl group, a carbon chain, and a unique side chain that distinguishes it from other amino acids. Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids that are linked together through peptide bonds. This sequence and structure determine the specific function of each protein in biological systems, including enzymes, hormones, and structural components of cells.

Understanding this classification is crucial because proteins perform a wide variety of roles in living organisms, from facilitating biochemical reactions to providing structural support and regulating physiological processes. The synthesis of proteins from amino acids is central to genetic expression and cellular metabolism, making them essential for life. Consequently, recognizing that amino acids serve as the basic units that construct proteins highlights their importance in biology and biochemistry.