L-amino acids are the most common form. L signifies
A) the absolute configuration of the asymmetric C-atom as compared to L-glyceraldehyde.
B) the levorotation of plane polarized light by solutions of these compounds.
C) the fact that the amino group is attached to C-atom #1.
D) the designation is of historical origin and bears no relationship to structure.
E) none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

L signifies the absolute configuration of the asymmetric C-atom as compared to L-glyceraldehyde, which is the standard reference molecule for the D/L system of nomenclature for chiral molecules. The L-amino acid has the amino group attached to the C-atom with a configuration that corresponds to the L-glyceraldehyde molecule.

L-Amino Acids Are the Most Common Form