Alpha helices are a common structural motif in proteins, characterized by a right-handed coil or spiral shape. They are formed by hydrogen bonds between the backbone atoms in the polypeptide chain, specifically between the carbonyl oxygen of one amino acid and the amide hydrogen of another, typically four residues earlier. This arrangement stabilizes the helical structure, allowing it to play a crucial role in the overall folding and function of proteins. These helices are often found in the secondary structure of proteins, alongside beta sheets and turns. The presence of alpha helices contributes to the protein's stability and can influence its interactions with other molecules. Their predictable structure makes them important in understanding protein function and design in fields like biochemistry and molecular biology.