A medical researcher is investigating the chemical and physical properties of a substance that she isolated from the surface of charcoal-grilled meat.When the scientist mixes a small amount of the substance with living human cells,the chemical causes the rapid breakdown of the cells' plasma membranes.She is able to prevent this reaction by adding vitamin C to the mixture of the substance chemical and cells.Based on this information,the scientist has ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scientist has determined that the chemical isolated from charcoal-grilled meat is an oxidant because it caused the breakdown of living human cells' plasma membranes. Vitamin C, a known antioxidant, was able to prevent this reaction. Therefore, the chemical must be an oxidant. This conclusion is based on in vitro experiments under controlled conditions, not in vivo experiments, and there is no information to suggest that the substance is a potential treatment for cancer.

A Medical Researcher Is Investigating the Chemical and Physical Properties