Iodine is a semi-lustrous, non-metallic solid at room temperature. Iodine is essential to the human body. It’s a chemical element with an atomic mass of 53. When it melts, it turns into yellow vapor. It has a vital role in thyroid hormone production.
1. The brain needs Iodine
Iodine is essential in fetal brain development. It has an integral role in human brain development. During the embryonic period in the first three weeks of conception, Iodine is most important. Its deficiency can lead to congenital deficiency in the thyroid and brain. The hippocampus, neurotransmitter, and micro-structures like myelin may be underdeveloped In the absence of Iodine. Thyroid hormones are important in the proper functioning of the brain. On the contrary, sufficient amounts are helpful in good thyroid hormone action.
2. Despite Iodine being good, it’s bad
In cont-rally Iodine, radioactive isotopes can be dangerous. In the event of a nuclear accident, children are at the risk of exposure of developing cancer. However, when used and targeted for good, the result can be helping. It can be used to treat cancer of the thyroid gland. The iodine isotopes can be directed to the cancerous cells we want to kill. But the dosage must be greatly considered as its excessive might also cause cancer.
3. The first photographs were made out of Iodine
Iodine gave birth to the [daguarreotype]photograph. Louis Daguerre, a french painter, was experimenting. He exposed liquid Iodine to light; this created a photographic reaction. Photography is the oldest industrial application of Iodine. It was used to develop non-digital images. This application was based on the light sensitivity properties of silver iodine. In making films, silver iodide crystals are contained in a thin gel layer. When this film is exposed to light, an image is recorded. This application has helped us to trace back history. It allowed the record of history and preservation of past images. From the past years to the modern era, images aren’t still produced in films. Instead, they are produced on LCD screens. The LCD panels are incorporated with iodine crystals. When subjected to electrical current, they are charged. They polarize light rays passing through them. It leads to the production of images on screens and television sets. Since its application n old-school photography, Iodine has helped improve the photography industry’s evolution into the new era.
4. Used to confirm the presence of starch
In schools, Iodine is used in science practicals. During practicals, the iodine solution confirms the presence of starch. When used together with potassium iodide, they form a deep blue solution when starch is present. This result has led to its application in detecting counterfeit banknotes. It is in the event the counterfeit are printed with starch-containing material. In the experiment, to confirm the presence of starch, a solution of potassium iodide and Iodine is used. The mixture has an alight brown color. When the solution is added to a solution containing starch, the color of the solution turns deep blue. Starch, a carbohydrate, contains two polysaccharides made of glucose units. It is made up of Amylopectin and Amylose. Amylose is the one responsible for the blue color. A charge-transfer complex triggers the color change. Iodine is insoluble in water. Potassium iodide comes to play as it mixes, enabling Iodine to be soluble in water. Together they form polyiodide ions negatively charged. These negatively charged ions act as donors. Therefore, they easily excite to higher energy levels. The light absorbed in this process is perceived in the human eye as a blue color.
5. Used in the x-ray field
Iodine also absorbs x rays; this protects the body from absorbing the harmful rays that might cause cancer. It helps in making a clear and correct diagnosis. It also helps in producing a clear impression of bodily structures.
6. used in the production of thyroid hormones
It is used in the production of thyroxine and triiodothyronine. In the manufacture of this, the thyroid gland uses Iodine. Insufficient amounts lead to the development of goiter. There is a swelling in the thyroid gland. It’s a preventable cause of mental retardation. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in the metabolic process in the cells and tissues. Scientists greatly appreciate the association between iodine and thyroid function. A healthy individual retains 20 mg of Iodine in the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland converts Iodine into t3 and t4. It enables the cells to absorb Iodine. Then in the cells, Iodine combines with amino acids. It is then released into the bloodstream. Together they travel around the body controlling metabolism. It also inhibits some metabolic steps in vitro experiments. Iodine prevents adenosine monophosphate cascade. It also activates h2o2 synthesis causing protein iodination.
7. Radioactive Iodine can treat cancer
Iodine has a well-known use in nuclear medicine. It has an application in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. A small dosage of radioactive isotope iodine is swallowed. It is absorbed into the bloodstream by the digestive system. From the bloodstream, the isotope is then transported to the thyroid gland. In the gland, it then emits radiation and destroys the cancerous cells. It can also be used in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism. After taking the dosage, it’s advisable not to drink or eat anything overnight after the procedure. Anti-thyroid medication therapy should also be stopped after 2 -3days. Pregnant women are also prohibited from taking the medication. Patients traveling and boarding jumbo jets are given a protection letter by their physician. This letter helps them evade the detection equipment. Maximum benefits of the iodine cancer therapy are effective after six months. A single dosage is enough, but a second and third dose may be considered.
8. A good performing antiseptic
Iodopovidone, an antiseptic form of Iodine, is used as a broad-spectrum antibiotic. Healthcare providers widely use it. The world health organization legalized Iodopovidone in 1955.The proliferation of antiseptic and antibiotic bacteria with resistant strains. There is no need to look for other ideas. Iodine is mostly applied in skin cleansing and the prophylactic treatment of wound infection. Iodopovidone is also used as a surgical scrub in medicine and surgery.
9. Helps in the manufacture of Mandal paint
It is used to make mandal throat paint. Mandal paint is a solution of Iodine and glycerine. Glycerine is used as a transporter. It gives a prolonged contact of the medication to the affected surfaces. It is efficient due to its high viscosity. It is used to prevent throat infections like pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and laryngitis. It also cures sore throat. This paint also is applied to the skin and the mucous membranes due to its analgesic and antiseptic properties. Glycerine in the mixture acts as a base because of its viscosity. It also helps the paint from washing away by saliva hence bringing about prolonged action.
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