Opiates questions

Questions on Opiates

1. Morphine is a naturally occurring analgesic that can be converted into diamorphine (heroin).

(a) Identify the type of reaction occurring during this process.

(b) Name the reagent used to react with morphine to convert it into diamorphine.

(c) Identify the catalyst needed for this reaction.

(d) Explain what is meant by developing a tolerance towards heroin and state why this is dangerous.

(e) Explain why in some countries the authorities provide free syringes to heroin addicts.

2. The structures of both morphine and heroin are given in Section 37 of the IB chemistry data booklet. Explain why heroin is much less polar than morphine and how this affects its potency as an analgesic.

3. The structure of morphine is shown below.

(a) Explain why morphine is often administered as its hydrochloride salt.

(b) Show where the positive charge will be located when morphine is converted into its hydrochloride salt.

4. Explain why iodomethane is used to synthesise codeine from morphine.

Download the Opiates questions to give to your students.

To see the worked answers go to Opiates answers.
All materials on this website are for the exclusive use of teachers and students at subscribing schools for the period of their subscription. Any unauthorised copying or posting of materials on other websites is an infringement of our copyright and could result in your account being blocked and legal action being taken against you.