Amygdalin is a naturally occurring compound that is commonly found in seeds of apricot and apple. If you eat at least 200 of these seeds, it can be deadly. What is this harmful by product when amygdalin is reduced by enzymes in our body?
Correct answer: B. Hydrogen cyanide
- A. Cyanide ion
- B. Hydrogen cyanide
- C. Cyanohydrins
- D. Cyano radical
Explanation
Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside which contains a nitrile group. When it is acted upon by an enzyme called beta-glucosidase, it gets converted to hydrogen cyanide, which is highly toxic. Hydrogen cyanide is a poisonous gas that interferes with the use of oxygen by cells in the body, leading to suffocation and death.
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