The role of R-groups (side chains) in amino acids is to determine the chemical properties and functions of the amino acids. The R-groups vary in size, shape, charge, and chemical composition, which imparts different characteristics to each amino acid. These variations in R-groups influence the overall structure, stability, solubility, and reactivity of proteins, as well as their specific interactions with other molecules and the environment. Therefore, the R-groups play a crucial role in dictating the structure and function of proteins.
