tertiary structure
What tertiary structure means in Biology A-Level, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of tertiary structure
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain tertiary structure in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
The 3D shape of a protein, determined by where ionic bonds, hydrogen bonds and disulfide bridges form between the R groups of the amino acids.
The 3D shape of a polypeptide, held by R group interactions, which changes when a different R group alters these bonds.
The three-dimensional folding of the chain, held by hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds and disulfide bridges between R groups.
The folding of the polypeptide that determines the precise arrangement of the active site.
Topics that use tertiary structure
- Alteration of the sequence of bases in DNA can alter the (AQA A-Level)
- General properties of proteins (AQA A-Level)
- Genetic diversity can arise as a result of mutation or during (AQA A-Level)
- Many proteins are enzymes (AQA A-Level)
Related terms
- denaturation
- frameshift
- primary structure
- activation energy
- active site
- active sites and binding sites
- alleles
- amino acid sequence
Using tertiary structure in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Biology questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge