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

11. Nuclear Chemistry

Gamma Emission

GOB Chemistry

11. Nuclear Chemistry

Gamma Emission

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2:10 minutes

Problem 35b

Textbook Question

Bone and bony structures contain calcium and phosphorus.
b. During nuclear tests, scientists were concerned that strontium-85, a radioactive product, would be harmful to the growth of bone in children. Explain.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the context: Bones are primarily composed of calcium phosphate, which provides strength and structure. Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) play a critical role in bone formation and maintenance. Strontium (Sr) is chemically similar to calcium because both are alkaline earth metals in Group 2 of the periodic table.

Recognize the concern: Strontium-85 is a radioactive isotope. Due to its chemical similarity to calcium, strontium-85 can replace calcium in the bone matrix during bone growth and remodeling processes.

Explain the biological impact: When strontium-85 is incorporated into bones, its radioactivity can emit harmful radiation (e.g., beta particles or gamma rays). This radiation can damage bone cells, disrupt normal bone growth, and potentially harm surrounding tissues.

Relate to children: Children are particularly vulnerable because their bones are actively growing and remodeling. The incorporation of radioactive strontium-85 into their bones could interfere with proper bone development and increase the risk of radiation-induced health issues.

Conclude the explanation: The concern during nuclear tests was that strontium-85 released into the environment could enter the food chain, be absorbed by the body, and accumulate in bones, posing a significant health risk, especially to children whose bones are still developing.

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Key Concepts

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

Bone Composition

Bones are primarily composed of a matrix that includes minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which provide strength and rigidity. These minerals are crucial for the development and maintenance of healthy bone structure, making them essential for growth, especially in children.

Strontium-85 and Bone Uptake

Strontium-85 is a radioactive isotope that can mimic calcium in biological systems. When present in the body, it can be incorporated into bone tissue, potentially disrupting normal bone growth and development, particularly in children whose bones are still forming.

Radiation Effects on Health

Exposure to radioactive materials like strontium-85 can lead to harmful health effects, including increased risk of cancer and developmental issues. In children, whose cells are rapidly dividing and growing, the impact of radiation can be particularly detrimental, affecting their overall health and bone integrity.

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