A researcher has isolated an organic,water-soluble chemical from roses.After performing tests,the scientist determines that the chemical supplies no energy for cells,but protects cell membranes from being damaged by certain environmental factors.Based on this information,the researcher may have discovered a (an)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An antioxidant is a substance that protects cells from damage caused by free radicals and other environmental stressors. The fact that the chemical isolated from roses supplies no energy for cells but protects cell membranes from damage suggests that it may act as an antioxidant. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and are unlikely to be water-soluble organic chemicals from roses. Teratogens are substances that can cause birth defects and have nothing to do with the properties of the isolated chemical. Free radicals are highly reactive compounds that can damage cells, but the chemical isolated from roses appears to protect against such damage.

A Researcher Has Isolated an Organic,water-Soluble Chemical from Roses