Biological Molecules - Inorganic Ions Flashcards
Where are inorganic ions found?
Inorganic ions are found in organisms where they occur in solution in the cytoplasm of cells and in body fluids and as well as part of larger molecules. They may be in concentrations that range from very high to very low.
What are hydrogen ions?
Hydrogen ions determine the pH of substances such as blood, and therefore the functioning of enzymes - the higher the concentration of hydrogen ions, the lower the pH.
What are iron ions?
Iron ions are a component of haemoglobin, which is an oxygen carrying molecule in red blood cells.
What are sodium ions?
Sodium ions are involved in transport across plasma membranes, e.g. in co-transport of glucose and amino acids. They are also involved in forming nervous messages.
What are phosphate ions?
Phosphate ios come from phosphoric acid, and are a component of DNA (form a structural role) and ATP (play a role in storing energy). They can also be found in phospholipids in cell membranes.
What are magnesium ions?
Plants use magnesium ions to make chlorophyll in their leaves. Magnesium is used in chlorophyll to absorb light.
What is the specific function a particular ion performs related to?
Its properties.
How do you form inorganic ions?
Formed when an element or compound, that does not contain carbon, gains or loses electrons to become negatively or positively charged, for example: hydrogen ions, phosphate ions, iron ions and sodium ions.
