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

14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur

Intro to Redox Reactions

GOB Chemistry

14. Compounds with Oxygen or Sulfur

Intro to Redox Reactions

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2:01 minutes

Problem 70

Textbook Question

Epinephrine is the active ingredient in the EpiPen^® used to treat severe allergic reactions. EpiPens expire due to the oxidation of the epinephrine. One of these reactions is shown below. Circle the groups in the product that were oxidized.

Verified step by step guidance

Examine the chemical structure of epinephrine in the provided image and identify the functional groups present (e.g., hydroxyl groups, amine groups, etc.).

Review the chemical reaction shown in the image to determine which functional groups undergo oxidation. Oxidation typically involves the loss of electrons, often resulting in the addition of oxygen or the removal of hydrogen.

Focus on the changes in the molecular structure between the reactant (epinephrine) and the product. Look for new bonds to oxygen or changes in the oxidation state of specific atoms.

Circle the functional groups in the product that have been altered due to oxidation. Commonly oxidized groups include hydroxyl groups converting to ketones or aldehydes.

Verify your identification by ensuring the circled groups align with the chemical principles of oxidation and the reaction mechanism depicted in the image.

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Key Concepts

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

Epinephrine Structure

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is a catecholamine with a specific chemical structure that includes a benzene ring, two hydroxyl groups, and an amine group. Understanding its structure is crucial for identifying which parts of the molecule are susceptible to oxidation, particularly the hydroxyl groups and the amine.

Oxidation Reaction

Oxidation is a chemical reaction that involves the loss of electrons or an increase in oxidation state by a molecule. In the context of epinephrine, oxidation can lead to the formation of different products, which may alter its effectiveness. Recognizing the specific groups that undergo oxidation helps in understanding the stability and shelf life of EpiPens.

Chemical Stability and Expiration

Chemical stability refers to the tendency of a compound to maintain its original chemical structure over time. In the case of EpiPens, the oxidation of epinephrine reduces its potency, leading to expiration. Awareness of factors that affect chemical stability, such as light, temperature, and oxygen exposure, is essential for proper storage and usage of these medical devices.

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