Iodine
by Yogi P - October 24, 2023
Iodine: The Key to Thriving
Iodine is an essential element that plays an important role in human health and well being. It is a trace element found in the human body, but is also naturally occurring in certain foods, such as sea vegetables, dairy products, meat and eggs.
It is an important component of the thyroid hormones, which are produced by the thyroid gland and play a critical role in regulating metabolism, growth and development.
History and Discovery of Iodine
Iodine was discovered in 1811 by French chemist Bernard Courtois. Courtois was searching for materials to make saltpeter, also known as potassium nitrate, and noticed a purple vapor given off by a reaction between sulfuric acid and kelp.
Upon further investigation, he discovered that the vapor contained a new element – iodine.
Properties of Iodine
- Atomic number: 53
- Symbol: I
- Atomic mass: 126.90447
- Melting point: 113.7 °C (236.7°F)
- Boiling point: 184 °C (364°F)
- Density: 4.93 g/cm3
- Valence electrons: 7
Uses of Iodine
Iodine has many uses in daily life. It is most commonly used to treat and prevent iodine deficiency disorders such as goiter and hypothyroidism. Iodine is also used to make x-ray contrast mediums, in photography, and to prevent dental cavities. It is also used as a food preservative, a component of some drugs, and to detect the presence of starch.
Iodine is used to make thyroid hormone, a critical regulator of metabolism, growth and development, and can also improve cognitive development in children.
Summary of the various everyday uses of iodine:
| Used in | Description |
|---|---|
| Iodine Deficiency | Iodine is used to treat and prevent iodine deficiency disorders like goiter and hypothyroidism, supporting overall health and well-being. |
| X-ray Contrast Media | Iodine is used in the production of x-ray contrast media, aiding in medical imaging and diagnostics. |
| Photography | Iodine has applications in photography as a component in photographic chemicals and processes. |
| Dental Care | Iodine is used to prevent dental cavities and maintain oral health. |
| Food Preservative | Iodine serves as a food preservative, helping extend the shelf life of various food products. |
| Pharmaceutical Uses | Iodine is a component of certain drugs and medications, contributing to their therapeutic properties. |
| Starch Detection | Iodine is used to detect the presence of starch in various substances, including laboratory and culinary applications. |
| Thyroid Hormone | Iodine is essential for the production of thyroid hormone, which regulates metabolism, growth, and development, and supports cognitive development in children. |
Safety Precautions
Iodine should be used with caution, as it is toxic in large doses. It is important to follow all storage instructions when handling and storing iodine.
Additionally, iodine preparations should be used as directed and individuals should consult a health professional before taking any form of iodine supplementation.
Conclusion
Iodine is an essential element that is essential for human health and development. Its most common applications are for treating and preventing iodine deficiency disorders, but it also has a variety of other uses, from acting as a food preservative to making x-ray contrast mediums.
It is important to take safety precautions when using and storing iodine, and consult a health professional before taking any kind of iodine supplement.
