What is a peptide bond, and how is it formed?

A peptide bond is the chemical link that joins two amino acids together to form a protein chain.

Here’s a explanation:

1. Formation:
   • Each amino acid has two important groups:
     • an amino group (–NH₂)
     • a carboxyl group (–COOH)
   • When two amino acids join, the amino group of one reacts with the carboxyl group of the other.
2. Reaction:
   • A molecule of water (H₂O) is released in this process.
   • This type of reaction is called a condensation or dehydration reaction.
   • The bond formed between the two amino acids is called a peptide bond (–CO–NH–).
3. Result:
   • The linked amino acids form a dipeptide.
   • Many peptide bonds together form polypeptides, which fold into proteins.

In short:
A peptide bond is a strong chemical bond that connects amino acids by joining the carboxyl group of one to the amino group of another, with the release of water.