Some theories of aging suggest that free radicals cause certain diseases and perhaps aging in general. As you know from the Lewis model, such molecules are not chemically stable and will quickly react with other molecules. According to certain theories, free radicals may attack molecules within the cell, such as DNA, changing them and causing cancer or other diseases. Free radicals may also attack molecules on the surfaces of cells, making them appear foreign to the body's immune system. The immune system then attacks the cells and destroys them, weakening the body. Draw Lewis structures for each free radical implicated in this theory of aging. d. CH₃OO (unpaired electron on terminal oxygen)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atoms involved in the molecule CH_3OO: one carbon (C), three hydrogens (H), and two oxygens (O).
2. Determine the total number of valence electrons: Carbon has 4, each hydrogen has 1, and each oxygen has 6. Add these together to get the total number of valence electrons.
3. Arrange the atoms with carbon as the central atom, bonded to three hydrogens and one oxygen. The second oxygen is bonded to the first oxygen.
4. Distribute the valence electrons to satisfy the octet rule for each atom, starting with the outer atoms (hydrogens and oxygens) and then the central atom (carbon).
5. Place the unpaired electron on the terminal oxygen, as specified in the problem, and ensure that the total number of electrons used matches the total number of valence electrons calculated.

Key Concepts

Free Radicals

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that contain unpaired electrons, making them unstable. They can initiate chain reactions by reacting with other molecules, potentially causing damage to cellular components like DNA, proteins, and lipids. This reactivity is central to theories of aging and disease, as free radicals can lead to oxidative stress, contributing to cellular damage and various health issues.

Lewis Structures

Lewis structures are diagrams that represent the bonding between atoms in a molecule and the lone pairs of electrons that may exist. They are essential for visualizing the arrangement of electrons and understanding the stability of molecules, including free radicals. By drawing Lewis structures, one can identify the presence of unpaired electrons and predict the reactivity of the molecule, which is crucial for analyzing free radicals.

Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage. This condition is linked to various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders, as well as the aging process itself. Understanding oxidative stress is vital for comprehending how free radicals can impact health and contribute to the deterioration of biological systems over time.