Chapter 23, Problem 23.127EP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine the chemical reaction for the generation of superoxide ion within cells.

Concept introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the species that are formed from the ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ inhaled through respiration. ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ that is not utilized by the electron transport chain and phosphorylation process is used for the synthesis of reactive oxygen species. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) present in the human body are hydrogen peroxide $\left({\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\right)$, superoxide ion $\left({\text{O}}_2^{-}\right)$, and hydroxyl radical $\left(\text{OH}\right)$.

ROS are important for the body but they have to be eliminated when they are not required as they are harmful when not needed.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: To determine the chemical reaction for the conversion of superoxide into hydrogen peroxide within cells.

Concept introduction: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is the species that are formed from the ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ inhaled through respiration. ${\text{O}}_{\text{2}}$ that is not utilized by the electron transport chain and phosphorylation process is used for the synthesis of reactive oxygen species. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) present in the human body are hydrogen peroxide $\left({\text{H}}_{\text{2}}{\text{O}}_{\text{2}}\right)$, superoxide ion $\left({\text{O}}_2^{-}\right)$, and hydroxyl radical $\left(\text{OH}\right)$.

ROS are important for the body but they have to be eliminated when they are not required. They are harmful to the human body so they are eliminated when they are not needed.