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Can NADH react with iron II or iron III in the absence of enzymes and other chemicals?

A) Yes, NADH can react with both iron II and iron III, leading to the oxidation of NADH and reduction of iron.
B) No, NADH requires enzymes and other chemicals to react with iron II or iron III.
C) NADH can only react with iron II, not with iron III.
D) Iron II and iron III cannot be reduced by NADH.

User Keiwan
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

NADH requires enzymes and other chemicals to react with iron II or iron III, and it is unlikely to react with these metals in the absence of such biological catalysts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks whether NADH can react with iron II (Fe2+) or iron III (Fe3+) in the absence of enzymes and other chemicals. The correct answer is B) No, NADH requires enzymes and other chemicals to react with iron II or iron III. In biological systems, oxidation-reduction reactions involving NADH typically occur with the assistance of enzymes. These enzymes facilitate the removal of hydrogen atoms and the transfer of electrons. NADH functions as a reducing agent that can donate electrons, becoming oxidized to NAD+ in the process.

However, in the absence of enzymes, NADH is unlikely to react with iron II or iron III. Biological redox reactions involving NADH and metal ions like iron are highly specific and often require particular conditions and cofactors. Besides enzymes, these reactions may require additional compounds or coenzymes for correct electron transfer.

User Mike DeAngelo
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