C10h12n2o

Unveiling the Mystery of C₁₀H₁₂N₂O: A Simplified Look at Nicotine

C₁₀H₁₂N₂O. This seemingly cryptic string of letters and numbers represents a molecule familiar to many, even if its chemical identity remains unknown: nicotine. This article aims to demystify this compound, exploring its structure, properties, effects, and societal impact in an accessible way. We'll avoid overly technical jargon, focusing instead on clear explanations and practical examples.

1. The Molecular Structure: A Closer Look

The formula C₁₀H₁₂N₂O tells us that a nicotine molecule contains 10 carbon (C) atoms, 12 hydrogen (H) atoms, 2 nitrogen (N) atoms, and 1 oxygen (O) atom. However, this formula alone doesn't reveal how these atoms are arranged. Nicotine's structure is more complex, featuring a pyridine ring (a six-membered ring containing five carbons and one nitrogen) and a pyrrolidine ring (a five-membered ring containing four carbons and one nitrogen). These rings are fused together, meaning they share two atoms. A methyl group (CH₃) is attached to the pyridine ring, and an oxygen atom is bonded to one of the carbons in the pyrrolidine ring as part of a carbonyl group.

Imagine a bicycle with two connected wheels – the rings are like the wheels, and various other components are attached. This analogy simplifies the complex 3D structure into a more understandable image. Understanding the precise arrangement of atoms is crucial because it dictates nicotine's properties and how it interacts with the body.

2. Properties and Characteristics of Nicotine

Nicotine is a colorless to pale yellow, oily liquid at room temperature. It has a pungent, tobacco-like odor and a bitter taste. It's highly soluble in water and many organic solvents. These properties are directly linked to its molecular structure. For instance, its polarity (due to the nitrogen and oxygen atoms) allows it to dissolve in water, while its relatively small size allows it to easily cross cell membranes.

Its volatility also contributes to the ease of inhalation in cigarette smoke. The volatility refers to how easily it transitions from liquid to gas. This explains why the effects of smoking are almost immediate upon inhalation.

3. Nicotine's Effects on the Body: A Neurochemical Journey

Nicotine's primary mechanism of action involves its interaction with the nervous system. It acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist. This means it mimics the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells. When nicotine binds to these receptors, it triggers a cascade of effects, including:

Increased heart rate and blood pressure: This explains the stimulatory effects often associated with nicotine consumption.
Stimulation of the adrenal glands: Leading to the release of adrenaline, contributing further to the "high" experienced by smokers.
Increased alertness and concentration: This effect explains why nicotine was sometimes used as a cognitive enhancer – although this use is dangerous and inadvisable due to significant side effects.
Release of dopamine: This neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure and reward, creating a reinforcing cycle that leads to addiction.

These effects aren't just immediate; long-term use leads to significant changes in brain chemistry, making quitting incredibly difficult.

4. The Societal Impact of Nicotine: A Public Health Perspective

Nicotine's impact extends far beyond the individual level. Tobacco smoking, the primary source of nicotine exposure for many, is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide. It's linked to numerous cancers, heart disease, respiratory illnesses, and other health problems. The societal cost, including healthcare expenses and lost productivity, is staggering. Efforts to reduce tobacco consumption through public health campaigns, taxation, and regulation are crucial for mitigating these negative consequences. The addictive nature of nicotine necessitates comprehensive approaches that address both individual and societal factors.

5. Key Takeaways and Actionable Insights

Understanding the chemical nature of nicotine, its effects on the body, and its societal impact is crucial for informed decision-making. While nicotine itself is a fascinating molecule from a scientific perspective, its widespread use in tobacco products creates significant health risks and societal challenges. Recognizing the addictive nature of nicotine and the serious health consequences of tobacco use is vital in promoting public health and well-being.

FAQs: Addressing Your Questions

1. Is nicotine always harmful? While nicotine is the addictive component of tobacco, its effects in isolation are less severe than those seen with tobacco use. Pure nicotine, however, still carries risks and isn't safe for consumption.

2. How is nicotine extracted? Nicotine is primarily extracted from tobacco leaves through a process involving solvents and distillation.

3. Are there any therapeutic uses for nicotine? Research is exploring nicotine's potential role in treating certain neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, but this is still in early stages and not a viable treatment currently.

4. How does nicotine affect the brain in the long term? Chronic nicotine exposure leads to significant changes in brain structure and function, contributing to addiction and increasing vulnerability to other mental health issues.

5. What are the best ways to quit smoking? Various methods exist, including nicotine replacement therapy, medication, counseling, and support groups. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for personalized guidance.

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Serotonin C₁₀H₁₂N₂O - Chemical Compound Info Serotonin is a neurotransmitter with a chemical formula of C₁₀H₁₂N₂O.

Serotonin (hydrochloride) (CAS 153-98-0) - Cayman Chem Serotonin (hydrochloride): A tryptophan-<wbr/>based amino acid neurotransmitter. CAS Number: 153-98-0. Synonyms: 5-HT, 5-Hydroxytryptamine. Purity: ≥98%.

Serotonin | C10H12N2O - ChemSpider Macrophage migration inhibitory factor.

(±)-Cotinine | C10H12N2O - ChemSpider ChemSpider record containing structure, synonyms, properties, vendors and database links for (±)-Cotinine, 15569-85-4, cotinine, UIKROCXWUNQSPJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N

CID 6014967 | C10H12N2O - PubChem CID 6014967 | C10H12N2O | CID 6014967 - structure, chemical names, physical and chemical properties, classification, patents, literature, biological activities, safety/hazards/toxicity information, supplier lists, and more.

Serotonin: Introduction, Structure, Synthesis and Functions etc. 11 May 2024 · Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter with the chemical formula C10H12N2O. Structurally, it consists of an indole ring, a primary amino group (-NH2), and a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to the carbon atom in the 5-position of the indole ring.

4-Hydroxytryptamine | C10H12N2O | CID 11297 - PubChem 4-Hydroxytryptamine | C10H12N2O | CID 11297 - structure, chemical names, physical and chemical properties, classification, patents, literature, biological activities, safety/hazards/toxicity information, supplier lists, and more.

Cotinine - Wikipedia Cotinine is an alkaloid found in tobacco [1] and is also the predominant metabolite of nicotine, [2][3] typically used as a biomarker for exposure to tobacco smoke. Cotinine is currently being studied as a treatment for depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

Serotonin | C10H12N2O | CID 5202 - PubChem Serotonin | C10H12N2O | CID 5202 - structure, chemical names, physical and chemical properties, classification, patents, literature, biological activities, safety/hazards/toxicity information, supplier lists, and more.

세로토닌 - 위키백과, 우리 모두의 백과사전 세로토닌은 수면, 체온조절, 학습, 기억, 고통, 사회적 행동, [7] 성관계, 수유, 동작 활동, 바이오 리듬 등 다양한 생리적 과정에 관여한다. [8] 무척추동물처럼 복잡성이 덜한 동물들에게 세로토닌은 수유와 기타 과정을 조정한다. [9] 식물에서 세로토닌 합성물은 스트레스 신호와 연결된 것으로 보인다.

Serotonin | C10H12N2O | MD Topology | NMR | X-Ray The Automated Topology Builder (ATB) and Repository is intended to facilitate the development of molecular force fields for Molecular Dynamics or Monte Carlo simulations of biomolecular systems.

Serotonin | The Merck Index Online 6 Jul 2012 · Monograph ID M9871 Title Serotonin UNII 333DO1RDJY Molecular formula C 10 H 12 N 2 O Molecular weight 176.22 Percent composition C 68.16%, H 6.86%, N 15.90%, O 9.08% Standard InChI

5h-Serotonin | C10H12N2O | CID 129673318 - PubChem 5h-Serotonin | C10H12N2O | CID 129673318 - structure, chemical names, physical and chemical properties, classification, patents, literature, biological activities, safety/hazards/toxicity information, supplier lists, and more.

Crystal structure of serotonin - PMC Serotonin, C 10 H 12 N 2 O, systematic name 3- (2-aminoethyl)-1 H -indol-5-ol, is the primary neurotransmitter in humans, regulating mood, anxiety and happiness (Young & Leyton, 2002 ). While it is best known for its role in the central nervous system, serotonin is found throughout the human body and impacts a wide array of bodily functions.

C10H12N2O - Wikipedia The molecular formula C10H12N2O (molar mass 176.22 g/mol, exact mass : 176.094963) may refer to:

serotonin (CHEBI:28790) - EMBL-EBI Serotonin () or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a monoamine neurotransmitter. Its biological function is complex, touching on diverse functions including mood, cognition, reward, learning, …

Cotinine | C10H12N2O | CID 854019 - PubChem Cotinine | C10H12N2O | CID 854019 - structure, chemical names, physical and chemical properties, classification, patents, literature, biological activities, safety/hazards/toxicity information, supplier lists, and more.

Serotonin - Basic Neurochemistry - NCBI Bookshelf In the late 1940s, Rapport and collaborators [1] isolated, purified and identified this “tonic” substance in “serum” (hence, serotonin) as the substituted indole 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). The structures of serotonin and related compounds are shown in Figure 13-1.

Serotonin - Wikipedia Serotonin (/ ˌsɛrəˈtoʊnɪn, ˌsɪərə -/) [6][7][8], also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a monoamine neurotransmitter with a wide range of functions in both the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral tissues.

C10h12n2o

Unveiling the Mystery of C₁₀H₁₂N₂O: A Simplified Look at Nicotine

1. The Molecular Structure: A Closer Look

2. Properties and Characteristics of Nicotine

3. Nicotine's Effects on the Body: A Neurochemical Journey

4. The Societal Impact of Nicotine: A Public Health Perspective

5. Key Takeaways and Actionable Insights

FAQs: Addressing Your Questions

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