Download Below is the structure of cortisone, part of

Chemistry 130
Worksheet 3b
Oregon State University
Dr. Richard Nafshun
Below (Figure 1) is the structure of cortisone, a synthetic steroid hormone that is rapidly converted to
hydrocortisone in the body. Hydrocortisone affects the metabolism of carbohydrate, protein, and fat; the
maturation of white blood cells; the retention of salt and water in the body; the activity of the nervous
system; and the regulation of blood pressure. It acts a muscle lubricant, but when injected or applied
topically, it reduces inflammation. Figure 2 represents the structure of cholesterol. Cholesterol is a
complex alcohol constituent of all animal fats and oils. It can be activated to form vitamin D.
Cholesterol is one of a group of compounds known as sterols and is related to such other sterols as the
sex hormones (e.g., estrogen).
Label all functional groups you can find (methyl groups, alcohols, ketones, etc.). How many cyclic
alkenes are fused together in these molecules? How many cyclohexanes and cyclopentanes are in each
molecule? Write the chemical formula for each molecule. Describe in which ways these molecules are
different.
Figure 1. Structure of Cortisone:
Figure 2. Structure of Cholesterol: