Biomolecules - Inorganic ions Flashcards
What can inorganic ions be known as?
Electrolytes and minerals
Why are inorganic ions important?
They play an important role in many cellular processes including muscle contraction, nervous coordination and maintaining water potential in cells and blood.
What concentration are macronutrients needed in?
Small concentrations
What concentration are micronutrients needed in?
Minute (trace )concentrations e.g copper or zinc
What are the four macronutrients?
Magnesium, iron, phosphate and calcium
What is the function of magnesium in plants?
It is an important constituent of chlorophyll and essential for photosynthesis plants without magnesium in their so can’t make chlorophyll so the leaves turn yellow- chlorosis.
What is the function of magnesium in mammals?
Mammals need magnesium for their bones.
What is the function of iron?
It is a constituent of haemoglobin which transports oxygen in red blood cells. A lack of iron in a human diet can lead to anaemia.
What is the function of phosphate?
It is used to make nucleotides including ATP and a constituent of phospholipids found in biological membranes.
What is the function of calcium in plants?
It is a component of cell walls which provides strength.
What is the function of calcium in mammals?
It is an important structural component of bones and teeth.
