Which of the following is an example of a chemical carcinogen?

Master Cell Division and Cancer essentials. Study with comprehensive questions and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is an example of a chemical carcinogen?

Tobacco smoke is considered a chemical carcinogen because it contains a complex mixture of over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are known to cause cancer. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrosamines, and benzene, which can damage the DNA in cells. This damage can lead to mutations that disrupt normal cell functions and contribute to the development of various types of cancer, including lung cancer and cancers of the mouth and throat. In contrast, the other options listed are not classified as carcinogens. Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is an antioxidant and is not associated with cancer promotion. Calcium carbonate is a common mineral used as a calcium supplement and does not have carcinogenic properties. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is essential for metabolism but is not known to be a carcinogen. Therefore, tobacco smoke stands out as the clear example of a chemical carcinogen in this context.

Tobacco smoke is considered a chemical carcinogen because it contains a complex mixture of over 7,000 chemicals, many of which are known to cause cancer. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, nitrosamines, and benzene, which can damage the DNA in cells. This damage can lead to mutations that disrupt normal cell functions and contribute to the development of various types of cancer, including lung cancer and cancers of the mouth and throat.

In contrast, the other options listed are not classified as carcinogens. Ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C, is an antioxidant and is not associated with cancer promotion. Calcium carbonate is a common mineral used as a calcium supplement and does not have carcinogenic properties. Thyroxine is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland and is essential for metabolism but is not known to be a carcinogen. Therefore, tobacco smoke stands out as the clear example of a chemical carcinogen in this context.

More practice questions