Radical Terminology

Question 1

What are the alkane characteristics

Answer 1

Non-polar C-C and C-H sigma bonds
- Not reactive
Are not nucleophilic enough to react using chemistry we’ve already studied
Paraffin -> little affinity
- affinity refers to the tendency or attraction between two substances, like atoms or molecules, to combine and form a more stable chemical

Question 2

How does the immune system use free radicals / reactive oxygen species (ROS)

Answer 2

EX: O2- (w/radical) and NO2 (w/radical)
They are used to combat invading microbes

Question 3

How are immune system reactions held in balance

Answer 3

The use of antioxidants

Question 4

What are examples of radical inhibitors / antioxidants used in the immune system

Answer 4

Vitamin C: water soluble; excess is flushed easily from the body
Vitamin E: fat soluble; excess is stored in the body, must be careful of amount consumed via vitamins/food

Question 5

How are Chlorofluorocarbons related to radicals

Answer 5

CFCs are stable in the lower atmosphere, but react with UV light in the stratosphere to form reactive chlorine radicals
These radicals then react and initiate a chain reaction with the ozone (O3)