3.1.8 Inorganic Ions

Question 1

what is an inorganic ion?

Answer 1

occur in the solution in the cystoplasm of cells and body fluids of organisms - each ion has a specific role depending on its properties
- doesnt contain carbon
- some in high concentrations, others in low conc.

Question 2

what is the function of an iron ion?

Answer 2

found in haemoglobin (large protein that carries oxygen around the body in red blood cells)
made up of 4 polypeptide chains each with Fe2+ in the centre - it’s the iron that actually binds to the oxygen

Question 3

what are the functions of hydrogen ions?

Answer 3

determines the pH of solutions and therefore the functioning of enzymes
more H+ = lower pH

Question 4

what are the functions of phosphate ions?

Answer 4

form a structural role in DNA molecules and role in storing energy in ATP molecules
Bonds between phosphate groups store energy in ATP
phosphate groups in DNA + RNA that allow nucleotides to join up + form polynucleotides

Question 5

what are the functions of sodium ions?

Answer 5

a molecule of glucose or amino acid can be transported across a cell-surface membrane alongside sodium ions - co-transport

Question 6

what is a cation?

Answer 6

a positively charged ion

Question 7

what is an anion?

Answer 7

a negatively charged ion