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Chapter 19: Problem 82

In large doses, selenium is toxic. However, in moderate intake, selenium is a physiologically important element. How is selenium physiologically important?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Selenium is a physiologically important trace element that plays a crucial role in various biological processes. It is a component of antioxidant enzymes, helping neutralize harmful free radicals and preventing cellular damage. Additionally, selenium supports thyroid hormone metabolism, immune system function, and reproductive health. Moderate intake of selenium is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to Selenium

Selenium is a trace element that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is present in a variety of foods, such as seafood, grains, and some nuts. Although it can be toxic at high levels, moderate intake of selenium is necessary for maintaining optimal health.
02

Selenium as a Component of Antioxidant Enzymes

One of the most important roles of selenium is its function as a component of antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidases (GPx). These enzymes help neutralize harmful free radicals, which are molecules that can damage the cells and tissues in our body. By incorporating selenium into these antioxidant enzymes, the element helps prevent cellular damage caused by oxidative stress and supports overall health.
03

Selenium and Thyroid Hormone Metabolism

Selenium also plays a vital role in the metabolism of thyroid hormones. It is a necessary component of the enzyme iodothyronine deiodinase, which is responsible for converting the inactive form of thyroid hormone (thyroxine, or T4) into its active form (triiodothyronine, or T3). Proper functioning of this enzyme is essential for regulating the body's metabolism, growth, and development.
04

Selenium and Immune System Function

This trace element has been found to support immune system function, particularly when it comes to cell-mediated immunity. Selenium helps in the production and proper functioning of certain immune cells called T-cells, which are crucial for defending against infections and foreign invaders. A deficiency in selenium can lead to a weakened immune response and increased susceptibility to illness.
05

Selenium and Reproductive Health

Selenium is also important for maintaining reproductive health in both men and women. In men, selenium has been shown to support sperm production and motility, while in women, it is essential for proper fetal growth and development during pregnancy. Additionally, selenium has been linked to a reduced risk of certain birth defects. In conclusion, selenium is a physiologically important element that plays a role in various biological processes, including antioxidant defense, thyroid hormone metabolism, immune system function, and reproductive health. Moderate intake of this trace element is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Discuss the importance of the \(\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{C}\) and \(\mathrm{Si}-\mathrm{Si}\) bond strengths and of \(\pi\) bonding to the properties of carbon and silicon.

How do the acidities of the aqueous solutions of the alkaline earth metal ions \(\left(\mathrm{M}^{2+}\right)\) change in going down the group?

While selenic acid has the formula \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{SeO}_{4}\) and thus is directly related to sulfuric acid, telluric acid is best visualized as \(\mathrm{H}_{6} \mathrm{TeO}_{6}\) or \(\mathrm{Te}(\mathrm{OH})_{6}\) a. What is the oxidation state of tellurium in \(\operatorname{Te}(\mathrm{OH})_{6} ?\) b. Despite its structural differences with sulfuric and selenic acid, telluric acid is a diprotic acid with \(\mathrm{p} K_{\mathrm{a}_{1}}=7.68\) and \(\mathrm{p} K_{\mathrm{a}_{2}}=11.29 .\) Telluric acid can be prepared by hydrolysis of tellurium hexafluoride according to the equation $$\operatorname{TeF}_{6}(g)+6 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}(l) \longrightarrow\operatorname{Te}(\mathrm{OH})_{6}(a q)+6 \mathrm{HF}(a q)$$ Tellurium hexafluoride can be prepared by the reaction of elemental tellurium with fluorine gas:$$\operatorname{Te}(s)+3 \mathrm{F}_{2}(g) \longrightarrow \operatorname{Te} \mathrm{F}_{6}(g)$$.If a cubic block of tellurium (density \(=6.240 \mathrm{g} / \mathrm{cm}^{3}\) ) measuring \(0.545 \mathrm{cm}\) on edge is allowed to react with 2.34 L fluorine gas at 1.06 atm and \(25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}\), what is the \(\mathrm{pH}\) of a solution of \(\mathrm{Te}(\mathrm{OH})_{6}\) formed by dissolving the isolated \(\operatorname{Te} \mathrm{F}_{6}(g)\) in \(115 \mathrm{mL}\) solution? Assume \(100 \%\) yield in all reactions.

How long will it take to produce \(1.00 \times 10^{3} \mathrm{kg}\) of magnesium metal by the electrolysis of molten magnesium chloride using a current of \(5.00 \times 10^{4} \mathrm{A} ?\)

Calculate the solubility of \(\mathrm{Mg}(\mathrm{OH})_{2}\left(K_{\mathrm{sp}}=8.9 \times 10^{-12}\right)\) in an aqueous solution buffered at \(\mathrm{pH}=9.42\).
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