Seminar Critique

The topic of this chemistry seminar was the affects of tobacco smoke on unborn children. Led by Dr. Steven Myers, the effects of tobacco, and the various adverse affects it has on the the development and well being of a unborn fetus as well as a newborn child were described. Dr. Myers is a faculty of University of Louisville Medical School and specializes in the Pharmacology/Toxicology department.

Prior to attending this seminar, I was much aware of the negative affects cigarette smoke had on a pregnancy, but after attending, the depth of my knowledge greatly increased. The various chemical found in cigarette smoke were discussed during the seminar. Dr. Myers described how the increased concentrations of these chemicals in the vicinity of a developing fetus can increase the likelihood of defects in the child. These abnormalities include, but are not limited to, cardiorespitory defects, neurological problems and SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). One such chemical, 4-aminobiphenol, is particularly hazardous. As stated by Dr. Myers, it one of the most carcinogenic compounds known.

Molecular Weight: 169.22
Melting Point: 55 deg.C
Boiling Point: 302 deg.C