How does the pitch and rise of an alpha helix affect protein folding and stability?

• A. The pitch and rise have no effect on protein folding and stability.
• B. A smaller pitch and rise decrease the stability by reducing hydrogen bonding.
• C. The pitch and rise determine the compactness and hydrogen bonding pattern, affecting stability.
• D. A larger pitch and rise increase the stability by allowing more hydrogen bonds.

Answer: (C)