Which term describes a chain of amino acids?

The term that describes a chain of amino acids is polypeptide. A polypeptide is formed when multiple amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds during the process of protein synthesis. This sequence of amino acids in a chain is crucial for determining the final three-dimensional structure and function of a protein.

While the terms protein and peptide are related, they refer to different concepts. A protein typically consists of one or more polypeptides that have folded into a specific shape, which is essential for its biological function. A peptide, on the other hand, refers to a shorter chain of amino acids, often made up of fewer than 50 amino acids. The term amino acid sequence refers more generally to the order of amino acids in a chain, but does not specifically denote the longer chain structure associated with more extensive polypeptides. Thus, in the context of the question, polypeptide is the most precise term to describe a chain of amino acids.