The total number of carbon atoms present in tyrosine, an amino acid, is _____

We need to find the total number of carbon atoms in tyrosine.

Tyrosine is an amino acid with the molecular formula $$C_9H_{11}NO_3$$.

Its structure is 4-hydroxyphenyl alanine: it has a benzene ring (6 carbons) with an OH group, connected via a $$-CH_2-$$ group to the amino acid backbone ($$-CH(NH_2)-COOH$$).

Counting carbon atoms:

- Benzene ring: 6 carbons

- $$CH_2$$ group: 1 carbon

- $$\alpha$$-carbon (CH): 1 carbon

- Carboxyl group (COOH): 1 carbon

Total = $$6 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 9$$ carbon atoms.

The answer is $$\boxed{9}$$.