Table of contents

1. Matter and Measurements4h 31m
2. Atoms and the Periodic Table5h 23m
3. Ionic Compounds2h 18m
4. Molecular Compounds2h 18m
5. Classification & Balancing of Chemical Reactions3h 17m
6. Chemical Reactions & Quantities2h 27m
7. Energy, Rate and Equilibrium3h 46m
8. Gases, Liquids and Solids3h 25m
9. Solutions4h 10m
10. Acids and Bases3h 29m
11. Nuclear Chemistry56m
BONUS: Lab Techniques and Procedures1h 38m
BONUS: Mathematical Operations and Functions47m
12. Introduction to Organic Chemistry1h 34m
13. Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds2h 12m
14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur1h 6m
15. Aldehydes and Ketones1h 1m
16. Carboxylic Acids and Their Derivatives1h 11m
17. Amines39m
18. Amino Acids and Proteins1h 51m
19. Enzymes1h 37m
20. Carbohydrates1h 41m
21. The Generation of Biochemical Energy2h 8m
22. Carbohydrate Metabolism2h 22m
23. Lipids2h 26m
24. Lipid Metabolism1h 45m
25. Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism1h 37m
26. Nucleic Acids and Protein Synthesis2h 54m

2. Atoms and the Periodic Table

Periodic Table: Classifications

GOB Chemistry

2. Atoms and the Periodic Table

Periodic Table: Classifications

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0:59 minutes

Problem 15b

Textbook Question

Using the Chemistry Link to Health: Elements Essential to Health, answer each of the following:
b. What is the role of sulfur in the human body?

Verified step by step guidance

Sulfur is an essential element in the human body, primarily found in amino acids such as methionine and cysteine, which are building blocks of proteins.

Explain that sulfur is crucial for the formation of disulfide bonds (S-S bonds) in proteins, which help maintain the structure and stability of proteins, especially in keratin and collagen.

Discuss how sulfur is a component of vitamins like biotin and thiamine, which are important for energy metabolism and enzymatic reactions.

Highlight that sulfur is involved in detoxification processes in the liver, as it is a part of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage.

Conclude by mentioning that sulfur is also important for the synthesis of certain hormones and enzymes, contributing to overall cellular function and health.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Role of Sulfur in Biochemistry

Sulfur is a vital element in biochemistry, primarily found in amino acids such as cysteine and methionine. These amino acids are crucial for protein synthesis and play significant roles in cellular functions. Sulfur also contributes to the formation of disulfide bonds, which help stabilize protein structures, influencing their functionality.

Detoxification and Antioxidant Functions

Sulfur is essential for detoxification processes in the liver, where it aids in the conjugation of toxins, making them easier to excrete. Additionally, sulfur-containing compounds, like glutathione, act as powerful antioxidants, protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals, thus supporting overall health.

Sulfur in Metabolism

Sulfur plays a critical role in various metabolic pathways, including the synthesis of coenzymes and vitamins. It is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats, contributing to energy production. Furthermore, sulfur is necessary for the synthesis of certain hormones and enzymes, which are vital for maintaining metabolic balance in the body.