Question

1. Polystyrene with air or gas blown into the solid is the main component in Styrofoam.

TRUE or FALSE

2. Arsenic, As, is

A)an essential element in the human body.

B)toxic because it results in an increase in the production of ATP.

C)toxic because it binds to the sulfhydryl group in proteins and enzymes.

D)used in high concentrations in ancient cosmetics.

E)None of these choices is correct.

Answer 1

1. True.

Styrofoam is actually expanded polystyrene foam. It is made up of polystyrene and it contains mostly air (up to 95%). Through polymerization, styrene is made into polystyrene and a hydrofluorocarbon agent is added. This mixture is then extruded and allowed to expand until it forms styrofoam.

2. Arsenic is toxic because it binds to the sulfhydryl group in proteins and enzymes.

Arsenic binds to the sulfhydryl group and disrupts sulfhydryl containing proteins and enzymes.As a result, the pyruvate oxidation pathway and the tricarboxylic acid cycle is inhibited.