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Chapter 7: Problem 7

Enanthotoxin is an extremely poisonous organic compound found in hemlock water dropwart, which is reputed to be the most poisonous plant in England. It is believed that no British plant has been responsible for more fatal accidents. The most poisonous part of the plant is the roots, which resemble small white carrots, giving the plant the name "five finger death." Also poisonous are its leaves, which look like parsley. Enanthotoxin is thought to interfere with the \(\mathrm{Na}^{+}\)current in nerve cells, which leads to convulsions and death.

Short Answer

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Answer: Enanthotoxin is an extremely poisonous organic compound found in hemlock water dropwart, the most poisonous plant in England. It interferes with the sodium ion current in nerve cells, which disrupts normal functioning and causes convulsions and, ultimately, death. The most toxic parts of the plant are the roots, resembling white carrots, and the leaves, which look like parsley.

Step by step solution

01

Introduction to Enanthotoxin

Enanthotoxin is an extremely poisonous organic compound found in hemlock water dropwart. It is known to be responsible for many fatal accidents and is considered the most poisonous plant in England. The most poisonous parts of the plant are the roots, which resemble small white carrots, and its leaves that look like parsley. Enanthotoxin is believed to interfere with the sodium ion current in nerve cells, leading to convulsions and eventually death.
02

Effects on Nerve Cells

Enanthotoxin affects the way nerve cells function, specifically by interfering with the sodium ion (Na+) current. As a result, the normal functioning of nerve cells is disrupted, causing convulsions and, in extreme cases, death.
03

Toxic Parts of the Plant

The roots and the leaves of the hemlock water dropwart are the most toxic parts of the plant. The roots have a similar appearance to small white carrots, while the leaves resemble parsley. This can make it difficult to identify and avoid the plant, as both the roots and the leaves can easily be mistaken for other, harmless plants.
04

Summary

Enanthotoxin is an extremely poisonous organic compound found in hemlock water dropwart, the most poisonous plant in England. The toxic parts of the plant are the roots, which resemble white carrots, and the leaves, which look like parsley. Enanthotoxin interferes with the sodium ion current in nerve cells, leading to convulsions and, ultimately, death.

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