Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring α-amino acid that contains a carboxy group in its R...

Glutamic acid is a naturally occurring α-amino acid that contains a carboxy group in its R group side chain (Table 19.4). (Glutamic acid is drawn in its neutral form with no charged atoms, a form that does not actually exist at any pH.)

a. What form of glutamic acid exists at pH = 1?

b. If the pH is gradually increased, what form of glutamic acid exists after one equivalent of base is added? After two equivalents? After three equivalents?

c. Propose a structure of monosodium glutamate, the common flavor enhancer known as MSG.