Introduction
A concussion occurs in the brain when G-force causes a rotational movement in the midbrain and diencephalon. The layers of the membranes that protect the brain from harmful molecules rip and fray. This creates of build up of free radicals, an influx of calcium and an efflux of potassium. Chemistry is vital in the reactions and elements that are present during the processes of a concussion. I chose concussions because they are a huge deal in today’s sports and many of my friends have gotten concussions. My life is affected by concussions because they can happen at any moment and I need to always be careful.
Main Chemicals, Compounds, Components
Calcium
Glutamate
Chemistry's Role
Background Research
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a violent blow to the brain. It is a rotational movement of the brain. Everything going on in the brain can cause dizziness, vomiting, nausea and drowsiness. One to Two weeks is the average recovery for a concussion. The injury affects the reticular activating system located in the midbrain and diencephalon by disrupting the normal cellular activities in this area. Some signs of a concussion are headaches, changes in emotions, cognitive impairment, and loss of consciousness.
Resources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concussion
Background Research
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/12/18/what-happens-in-the-brain-after-a-concussion/?_r=0
Brain ripping and fraying from the force allowing in harmful molecules in
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC155411/
Binding of Glutamate to NMDA
Intra-axonal calcium flux
Acute metabolic and ionic changes
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=13166
brain fires all its neurotransmitters
arteries in brain constrict
excess calcium affecting mitochondria
http://www.brainline.org/content/2008/07/what-happens-immediately-after-injury_pageall.html
rapid movement of the brain injuring and stretching neuronal axons
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glucose
Information about glucose
http://www.chemistryexplained.com/elements/A-C/Calcium.html
Information about calcium (formula)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutamic_acid
Information on Glutamic acid
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxidative_stress
What Oxidative Stress is and how its caused
About the Author
Pearce Kurth, 17, is a high school junior at Billings Senior High School in Montana. Pearce’s current GPA is 3.83 and he also is taking 3 honors classes at the moment. He is a part of Senior Advocates, a community service group, and Billings American Legion Baseball. He also played football for one year and basketball for two years. Pearce enjoys working hard in school, playing sports, and hanging out with his friends.