Chemicals in the body

Chemicals in the body

Chapter 2

ElementsElements

Our bodies are a form of matter Matter is made of elements Therefore our body is made of elements 4 main elements make up the majority of

the body (96%) Oxygen (65%) Carbon (18.5%) Hydrogen (9.5%) Nitrogen (3.2%)

ElementsElements

These four are the fundamental elements in most organic and some inorganic compounds Explains why they are so common

However, there are many other elements involved in the body

Each has their own unique function that they serve and problems that will occur if they are not present

SodiumSodium

Roles Nerve impulses Fluid balance Acid-base

Deficiency dehydration

ZincZinc Roles

maintenance of immune system Co-factor for enzymes (metabolism of

carbohydrates) Smell and Taste

Deficiency Impaired taste and smell Increased infections

CopperCopper

Roles Red blood cell (hemoglobin)

production

Deficiency?

ChlorineChlorine

Roles Acid-base balance Fluid balance

Deficiency Alkolosis Dehydration

Similar roles to what other element?

IodineIodine

Roles Normal metabolism-production of

thyroid hormones

Deficiency Goiter Hypothyroidism

IronIron Roles

Red blood cell production (part of protein hemoglobin)

Deficiency Anemia (most common deficiency

world-wide) Lack energy Shortness of breath

Why are women at a higher risk for deficiency?

ChromiumChromium

Roles Co-factors for enzymes to catabolize

fats Insulin metabolism Synthesis of cholesterol

Deficiency Impaired HDL Inability to stabilize sugar levels in

blood

CalciumCalcium

Roles Bones Muscle contraction Nerve impulses in the brain

Deficiency Osteoporosis Cramps Muscle spasm

PotassiumPotassium

Roles Help transfer materials in and out of

cells Nerve impulses

Deficiency Muscle cramping Inability to conduct nerve impulses

Vitamin B6Vitamin B6

Roles Amino acid metabolism Antibody formation

Deficiency?

Vitamin CVitamin C

Roles Improves iron absorption Antioxidant

Deficiency scurvy

1. An individual experiences shortness of breath due to lack of oxygen transported to tissues.

2. An individual experiences irregularity in metabolic processes because enzymes are not activated.

3. An individual experiences muscle cramping along with a water imbalance. Also, the ability to conduct nerve impulses is being hindered.

4. An individual experiences weak bones.

5. An individual experience problems with metabolism due to lack of functionality among thyroid hormones.

6. An individual experiences a lack of cellular energy.

7. An individual experiences dizziness and a headache due to blood alkalosis

Bonding and ReactionsBonding and Reactions

One of the primary functions of all elements in the body is to react and bond to create compounds

2 main types of reactions Synthesis (A + B -> AB) Decomposition (AB -> A + B)

Examples of ReactionsExamples of Reactions

Exchange ReactionExchange Reaction

The Synth. and Decomp. reactions will often combine to create an Exchange Reaction. AB + C -> AC + B AB + CD -> AD + CB

Biochemistry: CompoundsBiochemistry: Compounds

All chemicals in the body fall into two categories Inorganic Compounds Organic Compounds

Both categories are important, just in different ways

Inorganic Compounds: Water

Inorganic Compounds: Water

Most abundant inorganic compound in the body

Characteristics that make it valuable High Heat Capacity

Prevents sudden body temp changes

It’s a great solvent Can help transport substances

Chemical reactivity Hydrolysis reactions – break down food

Cushioning (ex. Brain)

Inorganic Compounds: Salts and Acids & BasesInorganic Compounds:

Salts and Acids & Bases Salts Serve as electrolytes

Nerve impulses, muscle contraction, transport substances

Acids and Bases Also serve as electrolytes Play huge role in reactions

Proton donors or accepters

Maintain body pH

Organic Compounds: Carbohydrates

Organic Compounds: Carbohydrates