Question

"Fluorosis" disease is caused due to the reaction of \(\ldots \ldots \ldots . .\) with excess of fluoride in the body. (a) \(\mathrm{Mg}\) (b) \(\mathrm{Fe}\) (c) \(\mathrm{K}\) (d) \(\mathrm{Ca}\)

Short answer

(d) Calcium (Ca)

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Fluorosis

Fluorosis is a condition caused by excessive intake of fluoride, typically leading to damage in bones and teeth.

Reaction with Body Compounds

When there is excess fluoride in the body, it reacts with calcium, affecting the strength and structure of bones and teeth.

Identifying the Correct Element

The element that reacts with fluoride in the body to cause fluorosis must be involved in bone and dental health. Calcium is known to be integral to both.

Selection of Answer

Based on the knowledge that calcium reacts with excess fluoride affecting bones, we identify the correct answer as the element involved in fluorosis.

Key concepts

Calcium and Fluoride Interaction

Calcium and fluoride are two elements that play significant roles in human health, but their interaction can lead to problems when fluoride is in excess. When too much fluoride combines with calcium, it leads to the development of fluorosis. This happens because fluoride ions replace hydroxide ions in the calcium hydroxyapatite, which is a crucial mineral phase in bones and teeth.

As a result, this process weakens the normal structure of bones and teeth. While small amounts of fluoride can strengthen teeth and prevent cavities, too much can have the opposite effect. This enables tooth discoloration and poses a risk to the integrity of bones.

Proper management of fluoride intake is necessary to protect one’s calcium stores, ensuring that our bones and teeth remain healthy and strong.

Dental Health

Our dental health can be significantly affected by the balance of elements like calcium and fluoride. While fluoride is often praised for its cavity-preventing properties, excessive levels can lead to fluorosis. This dental condition manifests as spots or streaks on teeth. In severe cases, it results in brown stains and weakened enamel, making teeth more susceptible to decay.

Deterring the development of fluorosis involves monitoring the fluoride content in drinking water and dental products. Many toothpastes contain fluoride designed to combat tooth decay efficiently, but it's important to ensure that children, who are more susceptible to fluorosis, use child-safe amounts.

Achieving dental health is all about balance. The right amount of fluoride can protect teeth from decay, while moderation prevents adverse effects like fluorosis.

Bone Health

For our bones to stay healthy and robust, calcium is a critical element. It represents the primary building block of our bones and teeth, giving them structure and strength. However, the presence of excess fluoride can significantly undermine bone health.

High levels of fluoride in our bodies can cause skeletal fluorosis. This condition leads to pain and damage to bones and joints. Over time, excessive fluoride can replace calcium in bones, affecting their density and function.

Maintaining healthy bones requires a balance of nutrients, including adequate calcium intake. It's also important to avoid excessive fluoride exposure from sources like high-fluoride water, certain dietary items, and industrial emissions.

Chemistry in Human Biology

Human biology is deeply intertwined with chemistry since various elements and compounds impact our body's functions. Fluoride is one chemical that has both beneficial and detrimental effects based on its concentration.

In instances of fluorosis, the excess fluoride interferes with calcium's role in maintaining bone and dental health. At an atomic level, this interaction demonstrates how changes in chemical composition can have significant implications for our overall health.

Understanding these chemical interactions helps us make informed choices about our environment and lifestyle, influencing product formulations and public health policies. By learning about chemistry in human biology, we become equipped to manage nutrient levels effectively, ensuring overall well-being and minimizing the risk of conditions like fluorosis.