VERCHILDS HIGH SCHOOL

CHEMISTRY

FORM 5 - SAVANNAH

ASSIGNMENT #2

Name Of Student: ___________________________________________

School I.D. Number: _________________________________________

Class: ________________________________________________________

Name Of Teacher: Anukam Lordsfavour

Territory: St. Kitts and Nevis

TOPIC:

Isomerism, IUPAC Nomenclature & Impact of Metals.

Organic Chemistry - An Introduction

Inorganic Chemistry - Impact of Metals on Living Systems and the Environment.

INSTRUCTIONS

READ THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.

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1. Answer ALL questions

2. Write your answers in the spaces provided

3. Where appropriate, ALL WORKINGS MUST BE SHOWN on the paper

4. Write your name at the top of all the pages of the paper

1. QUESTION: Draw the fully displayed structures of the compounds below for A to H;

A. Butane (C4H10). (1 mark)

B. Isobutane (2-Methylpropane). (1 mark)

C. Pentane (C5H12). (1 mark)

D. Isopentane (2-Methylbutane). (1 mark)

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E. 2,3-Dimethylbutane. (1 mark)

F. 2,2,3-Trimethylpentane. (1 mark)

G. Cyclopropane. (1 mark)

H. 1-hexene. (1 mark)

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 2. What are essential trace metals, and how do they impact living systems

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Essential trace metals are metallic elements that are required by living organisms in relatively small amounts for various
physiological functions. While these metals are present in minute concentrations, they play crucial roles in maintaining the structure
and function of biological molecules. Common essential trace metals include zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn),
chromium (Cr), selenium (Se), and molybdenum (Mo).

Here's an overview of the impact of essential trace metals on living systems, suitable for a grade 11 chemistry level:

.
Iron (Fe):
.
 Role: Essential for the formation of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen.
 Impact: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, and impaired cognitive function.

.
Zinc (Zn):
.
 Role: Involved in the function of enzymes, immune system regulation, and wound healing.
 Impact: Zinc deficiency can result in impaired growth, weakened immune response, and skin conditions.

.
Copper (Cu):
.
 Role: Essential for the formation of hemoglobin, collagen, and certain enzymes.
 Impact: Copper deficiency may lead to anemia, connective tissue disorders, and neurological symptoms.

.
Manganese (Mn):
.
 Role: Acts as a cofactor for various enzymes involved in metabolism and antioxidant defense.
 Impact: Manganese deficiency is rare but can affect bone development and lipid metabolism.

.
Chromium (Cr):
.
 Role: Enhances the action of insulin and is involved in glucose metabolism.
 Impact: Chromium deficiency may contribute to impaired glucose tolerance.

.
Selenium (Se):
.
 Role: Essential for the synthesis of selenoproteins, which have antioxidant and immune system functions.
 Impact: Selenium deficiency can result in muscle weakness, fatigue, and increased susceptibility to infections.

.
Molybdenum (Mo):
.

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  Role: Functions as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids.
 Impact: Molybdenum deficiency is rare but can affect the metabolism of certain amino acids.

Impact on Living Systems:

.
Enzymatic Activity:
.
 Essential trace metals often serve as cofactors for enzymes, facilitating biochemical reactions crucial for metabolism,
energy production, and other physiological processes.
.
Cellular Function:
.
 Trace metals are involved in maintaining the structural integrity of biological molecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids,
and are essential for cellular function and integrity.
.
Oxygen Transport:
.
 Metals like iron are critical for oxygen transport in blood (hemoglobin) and for the electron transport chain in cellular
respiration.
.
Antioxidant Defense:
.
 Certain trace metals, including selenium, play key roles in antioxidant defense mechanisms, protecting cells from oxidative
damage.
.
Immune System Function:
.
 Zinc and copper are crucial for the proper functioning of the immune system, including the development and activation of
immune cells.

Understanding the roles of essential trace metals in living systems is vital for grasping the complexities of biochemistry and human
physiology. Students in grade 11 chemistry may explore these concepts as part of their studies on the interactions between
chemicals and biological systems

3. What are the sources and health effects of lead exposure in humans

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Lead exposure is a serious public health concern as lead is a toxic metal that can have harmful effects on various organ systems in
the human body. Here's an overview suitable for a chemistry grade 11 level:

Sources of Lead Exposure:

.
Lead-Based Paint:

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.
 Lead-based paint is a common source of exposure, especially in older homes where layers of lead-based paint may still
exist.
.
Contaminated Soil:
.
 Soil near industries, highways, or areas with historical lead use can be contaminated with lead, leading to exposure
through direct contact or ingestion of contaminated vegetables.
.
Lead Pipes and Plumbing:
.
 In some areas, lead pipes or plumbing fixtures containing lead can leach lead into drinking water, particularly if the water
is corrosive.
.
Imported Goods:
.
 Certain imported goods, such as toys, cosmetics, and ceramics, may contain lead-based components.

.
Occupational Exposure:
.
 Certain occupations, such as battery manufacturing, construction, and painting, may involve exposure to lead.

.
Lead Glazed Pottery:
.
 Pottery or ceramics with lead glazes can be a source of exposure if used for food or drink.

.
Traditional Remedies and Cosmetics:
.
 Some traditional medicines and cosmetics may contain lead as an ingredient.

Health Effects of Lead Exposure:

.
Neurological Effects:
.
 Lead exposure can cause cognitive impairment, developmental delays, and behavioral disorders, particularly in young
children.
.
Anemia:
.
 Lead interferes with the production of hemoglobin, leading to anemia.

.
Renal Effects:
.

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  Long-term exposure to lead can affect the kidneys, leading to kidney damage.

.
Cardiovascular Effects:
.
 Lead exposure has been associated with an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

.
Reproductive Effects:
.
 Lead exposure can affect fertility and fetal development, leading to adverse outcomes during pregnancy.

.
Gastrointestinal Issues:
.
 Lead can cause abdominal pain, constipation, and other gastrointestinal issues upon ingestion.

.
Bone and Teeth:
.
 Lead can accumulate in bones and teeth, affecting their strength and integrity.

.
Behavioral and Learning Disorders:
.
 Children exposed to lead may exhibit behavioral problems, learning disorders, and a reduction in IQ.

Prevention and Mitigation:

.
Lead-Based Paint Removal:
.
 Safely remove or encapsulate lead-based paint in older homes.

.
Regular Testing:
.
 Regularly test drinking water for lead contamination, especially in homes with lead pipes.

.
Proper Hygiene:
.
 Encourage proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands and toys, to reduce exposure.

.
Nutritional Intervention:
.
 Adequate nutrition, including a diet rich in iron, calcium, and vitamin C, can help reduce lead absorption.

.
Occupational Safety Measures:
.
 Implement occupational safety measures in industries where lead exposure is a risk.

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Public Education:
.
 Raise awareness about the sources and health effe

4. How does mercury contamination in seafood affect human health?

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Mercury contamination in seafood is a significant public health concern as certain types of fish and shellfish can accumulate

elevated levels of mercury. Methylmercury, the organic form of mercury that builds up in fish, is particularly toxic and can have

adverse effects on human health.

5. How can plants accumulate and tolerate heavy metals, and what are the implications for

human health

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Accumulation and Tolerance of Heavy Metals in Plants:

.
Phytoremediation:
.
 Some plants have the ability to absorb and accumulate heavy metals from the soil through their roots. This process,
known as phytoremediation, is a natural mechanism that can be utilized to clean up contaminated environments.
.
Hyperaccumulators:
.
 Certain plant species, known as hyperaccumulators, can accumulate exceptionally high concentrations of heavy metals in
their tissues without experiencing toxicity. These plants have evolved specific mechanisms to transport, sequester, or
detoxify heavy metals.
.
Metallothioneins and Chelation:
.
 Plants produce metal-binding proteins called metallothioneins that assist in metal detoxification. Chelation, a process
where certain compounds bind to heavy metals and form stable complexes, helps immobilize metals within plant cells.
.
Root Exudates:
.
 Some plants release compounds from their roots (root exudates) that enhance the availability of certain heavy metals in
the soil and facilitate their uptake. This may involve the release of organic acids or other chelating agents.
.
Cell Wall Binding:

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.
 The cell walls of plant roots can bind heavy metals, preventing their entry into the plant's vascular system. This physical
barrier helps reduce the uptake of toxic metals.

Implications for Human Health (Grade 11 Chemistry Level):

.
Phytoremediation Benefits:
.
 Understanding how plants accumulate and tolerate heavy metals has practical applications in phytoremediation, a cost-
effective and environmentally friendly method for cleaning up contaminated soils.
.
Food Chain Contamination:
.
 While plants can help remediate soil, there is a risk of heavy metals entering the food chain when these plants are
consumed by animals or humans. The bioaccumulation of metals in higher trophic levels may pose health risks.
.
Nutrient Competition:
.
 Some heavy metals, such as cadmium, can compete with essential nutrients like zinc and iron in plant uptake. This can
impact the nutritional quality of crops and, subsequently, human health.
.
Toxicity in Edible Plants:
.
 Certain edible plants may accumulate heavy metals, particularly if grown in contaminated soils. Regular consumption of
such crops can lead to the gradual buildup of metals in the human body, potentially causing health issues.
.
Risk Assessment:
.
 Understanding the mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants is crucial for conducting risk assessments and
establishing guidelines for safe levels of heavy metals in food crops.
.
Nutritional Strategies:
.
 Research into plant tolerance mechanisms can inform the development of strategies to enhance the ability of crops to
resist or tolerate heavy metal contamination, thus reducing the risk of metal uptake in the food chain.

Understanding the complex interactions between plants and heavy metals is an interdisciplinary field that involves elements of
chemistry, biology, and environmental science. It provides valuable insights into environmental remediation strategies and the
potential impact of heavy metals on human health.

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 6. What are the risks associated with exposure to arsenic-contaminated drinking water?

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Risks Associated with Arsenic-Contaminated Drinking Water:

.
Cancer Risk:
.
 Bladder, Lung, and Skin Cancer: Chronic exposure to arsenic in drinking water has been linked to an increased risk of
developing various cancers, including bladder, lung, and skin cancer.
.
Cardiovascular Effects:
.
 Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease: Prolonged exposure to arsenic has been associated with an increased risk of
hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.
.
Skin Lesions:
.
 Hyperpigmentation and Hyperkeratosis: Long-term exposure to arsenic-contaminated water can cause skin lesions,
hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), and hyperkeratosis (thickening of the skin).
.
Neurological Effects:
.
 Cognitive Impairment: Chronic exposure may lead to cognitive impairment and developmental delays in children.

.
Respiratory Issues:
.
 Lung Irritation and Respiratory Problems: Inhalation of arsenic from drinking water or contaminated air can lead to
lung irritation and respiratory problems.
.
Endocrine Disruption:
.
 Impaired Hormone Function: Arsenic can interfere with the endocrine system, disrupting hormone function and
potentially leading to reproductive and developmental issues.
.
Immune System Suppression:
.
 Increased Susceptibility to Infections: Chronic exposure to arsenic has been associated with immune system
suppression, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
.
Gastrointestinal Effects:
.
 Abdominal Pain and Diarrhea: Acute exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, including
abdominal pain and diarrhea.

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.
Diabetes Risk:
.
 Increased Risk of Diabetes: Some studies suggest a potential link between chronic arsenic exposure and an increased
risk of developing diabetes.
.
Carcinogenicity:
.
 Skin and Internal Organ Cancers: Arsenic is classified as a Group 1 human carcinogen by the International Agency for
Research on Cancer (IARC), indicating that it is known to cause cancer in humans. The primary cancers associated with
arsenic exposure include skin and internal organ cancers.

Prevention and Mitigation:

.
Regular Testing:
.
 Regularly test drinking water sources for arsenic levels, especially in areas with a history of arsenic contamination.

.
Water Treatment:
.
 Implement water treatment technologies, such as filtration and adsorption, to reduce arsenic levels in drinking water.

.
Alternate Water Sources:
.
 Encourage the use of alternate, uncontaminated water sources for drinking and cooking.

.
Public Awareness:
.
 Educate communities about the risks of arsenic exposure and promote awareness of safe water practices.

.
Policy and Regulation:
.
 Establish and enforce regulations for acceptable levels of arsenic in drinking water to protect public health.

.
Health Monitoring:
.
 Implement health monitoring programs in arsenic-affected areas to detect and address health issues early.

Understanding the risks associated with arsenic exposure is critical for developing strategies to mitigate contamination and
safeguard public health. In a chemistry class at grade 11 level, students may explore the chemical properties of arsenic, its
environmental behavior, and the impact of contamination on human health

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 7. How do metal ions like calcium and sodium affect nerve and muscle function in living

organisms?

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

In living organisms, metal ions like calcium (Ca²⁺) and sodium (Na⁺) play crucial roles in nerve and muscle function. Here's a
simplified explanation suitable for grade 11 chemistry:

Calcium (Ca²⁺) in Nerve and Muscle Function:

.
Nerve Signal Transmission:
.
 Calcium is essential for transmitting signals along nerves. When a nerve impulse reaches the end of a nerve cell, it triggers
the release of calcium ions.
 The influx of calcium into the nerve cell allows vesicles containing neurotransmitters to fuse with the cell membrane,
releasing neurotransmitters into the synapse.
.
Muscle Contraction:
.
 In muscle cells, calcium is a key player in the process of muscle contraction.
 When a nerve impulse reaches a muscle, it signals the release of calcium ions from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (a structure
within muscle cells).
 The binding of calcium to proteins like troponin and tropomyosin allows myosin and actin (contractile proteins) to
interact, leading to muscle contraction.
.
Regulation of Enzyme Activity:
.
 Calcium also acts as a cofactor for various enzymes involved in cellular processes. It regulates the activity of enzymes that
control muscle contraction and other physiological functions.

Sodium (Na⁺) in Nerve and Muscle Function:

.
Nerve Signal Initiation:
.
 Sodium plays a crucial role in the initiation of nerve signals.
 When a nerve cell is stimulated, sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to rush into the cell. This rapid influx of
sodium generates an electrical signal, known as an action potential.
.
Propagation of Nerve Signals:
.
 The movement of sodium ions along the nerve cell membrane allows the action potential to travel along the length of the
nerve cell. This is essential for the transmission of nerve signals.
.

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 Excitation of Muscle Cells:
.
 In muscle cells, sodium is involved in the initial phase of muscle excitation.
 When a nerve signal reaches a muscle, it triggers the release of acetylcholine, which opens sodium channels in the muscle
cell membrane. The influx of sodium initiates the electrical changes leading to muscle contraction.

Overall Role in Excitation and Contraction:


Nerve Function:

 Sodium is crucial for the initiation and propagation of nerve signals.
 Calcium is involved in the release of neurotransmitters at the nerve terminal.

Muscle Function:

 Calcium is essential for muscle contraction by facilitating the interaction of contractile proteins.
 Sodium initiates muscle excitation, leading to the release of calcium and subsequent contraction.

Understanding the roles of calcium and sodium in nerve and muscle function is fundamental for grasping the basics of physiological
processes in living organisms. In a grade 11 chemistry class, students may explore these concepts within the broader context of
biochemistry and cellular function.

8. How do metals affect the behavior and reproductive patterns of wildlife in ecosystems

influenced by human activities?

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

In ecosystems influenced by human activities, the introduction of metals through pollution can have profound effects on the
behavior and reproductive patterns of wildlife. Here's a simplified explanation suitable for 11th-grade chemistry students:

Behavior of Wildlife:
.
Feeding Behavior:
.
 Metals, especially those released as pollutants, can accumulate in the food chain. Predatory animals may change their
feeding habits or migrate to avoid contaminated prey.
.
Migratory Patterns:
.
 Some species may alter their migration routes or nesting locations in response to metal contamination, seeking areas with
lower metal concentrations.

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Survival Instincts:
.
 Wildlife may develop altered survival instincts, avoiding areas perceived as polluted or demonstrating changes in
predator-prey interactions.

Reproductive Patterns:
.
Fertility Issues:
.
 Metals can disrupt the reproductive systems of wildlife, leading to fertility issues. For example, exposure to certain metals
may affect the production and quality of eggs or sperm.
.
Changes in Reproductive Timing:
.
 Metals can influence the timing of reproductive events. Wildlife may adjust breeding seasons or delay reproduction in
response to environmental stress caused by metal contamination.
.
Birth Defects:
.
 Exposure to metals during critical stages of development can result in birth defects in offspring, affecting their survival and
overall population health.
.
Altered Parental Care:
.
 Metal exposure can impact parental behaviors, affecting the ability of animals to care for their offspring. This can lead to
reduced survival rates for the young.

Mechanisms of Action:
.
Bioaccumulation:
.
 Metals can accumulate in the tissues of organisms, especially in long-lived species at the top of the food chain. This
bioaccumulation can lead to higher concentrations of metals in predators.
.
Endocrine Disruption:
.
 Some metals can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormonal signaling in wildlife. This disruption can have
cascading effects on reproductive processes.
.
Genetic Effects:
.

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  Metals may induce genetic mutations in wildlife, affecting the genetic diversity of populations and potentially leading to
long-term consequences for the health of the species.

Environmental Impact:
.
Biodiversity Loss:
.
 Changes in behavior and reproductive patterns can contribute to biodiversity loss, as species may struggle to adapt to
altered environmental conditions.
.
Population Declines:
.
 Reduced reproductive success, increased mortality, and changes in behavior can lead to declines in wildlife populations,
impacting ecosystem dynamics.
.
Ecosystem Imbalance:
.
 Disruptions in wildlife behavior and reproductive patterns can create imbalances in ecosystems, affecting the interactions
between species and the overall health of the environment.

Understanding the impact of metal pollution on wildlife behavior and reproduction is crucial for addressing environmental
challenges and promoting the conservation of biodiversity. In a chemistry class at the 11th-grade level, students may explore the
chemical properties of metals, their behavior in ecosystems, and the broader ecological implications of metal pollution.

9. What is biomagnification, and how does it relate to the environmental impact of metals?

________________________________________________________(1 mark)

Biomagnification is a process in which the concentration of certain substances, such as heavy metals, increases progressively along
the food chain. This phenomenon occurs as organisms at lower trophic levels (such as plants or small herbivores) take up these
substances from the environment. As predators consume organisms at lower trophic levels, the concentration of the substances
becomes more concentrated in their tissues. This concentration continues to increase as it moves up the food chain.

How Biomagnification Relates to the Environmental Impact of Metals:

.
Metal Uptake by Plants:
.
 Metals enter ecosystems through various sources such as industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, or atmospheric
deposition. Plants absorb these metals from the soil or water.
.
Metal Accumulation in Herbivores:
.

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  Herbivores consume plants, and the metals present in the plants accumulate in the tissues of the herbivores. The
concentration of metals in the herbivores is often higher than in the surrounding environment.
.
Metal Transfer to Predators:
.
 Predators, in turn, consume herbivores, and the metals biomagnify as they move up the food chain. The concentration of
metals in predators is higher than in the herbivores they consume.
.
Accumulation in Top Predators:
.
 This process continues, with each successive trophic level experiencing an increase in metal concentration. Top predators,
often apex predators, can have the highest concentrations of metals due to biomagnification.

Environmental Impact:

.
Ecological Disruption:
.
 Biomagnification can lead to ecological disruptions as certain organisms may be more sensitive to high metal
concentrations. This can result in population declines or shifts in species composition.
.
Bioaccumulation in Top Predators:
.
 Top predators, which are often keystone species, can experience health issues or reduced reproductive success due to the
high concentrations of metals in their bodies.
.
Impact on Biodiversity:
.
 Biomagnification can impact biodiversity by affecting the health and reproductive success of various species. This can lead
to shifts in population dynamics and potentially contribute to the decline of certain species.
.
Human Health Concerns:
.
 Biomagnification has implications for human health when metals enter the food chain. Fish, for example, can accumulate
mercury through biomagnification, and if consumed by humans, it can pose health risks, particularly for pregnant women
and children.
.
Ecosystem Services:
.
 The disruption caused by biomagnification can affect ecosystem services, such as water purification, pollination, and pest
control, which are essential for the well-being of both ecosystems and human societies.

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Total: 16 marks

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