Multiple choice Amino acids are ampholytes because they can function as either a/an polar or a nonpolar molecule acid or a base neutral molecule or an ion transparent or a light-absorbing compound Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself B Correct answer Explanation Ampholytes are molecules that can act as both acids and bases. Amino acids contain both an amino group (basic, can accept protons) and a carboxyl group (acidic, can donate protons), allowing them to function as either depending on pH.