1. Using the structures above discuss the characteristics of acetoacetate. Be sure to include the molecular formula, a description of the functional groups present, hydrogen bond donor and acceptor sites (if relevant) and types of bonds (e.g., covalent, polar, non-polar or ionic).

2. Identify the carboxyl-group and explain why this has a negative charge?

3. In the conversion of acetoacetate to D-beta-hydroxybutyrate (using NADH + H+), determine which compound is oxidized and which is reduced. Be sure to include how you determined this.

4. What functional group is lost in this conversion (e.g., what functional group is present in acetoacetate that is no longer present in D-beta-hydroxybutyrate)? How is this oxygen-containing functional group changed (if at all)?

5. How could you influence the equilibrium of this reaction (e.g., think of LeChatelier's principle)?

6. Describe what is meant by ketoacidosis? What compounds are functioning as acids and how might this alter physiological pH?