Inorganic ions Flashcards
What is an ion?
A charged particle is formed when an atom loses or gains electrons.
What are inorganic ions?
Ions that do not contain carbon.
What is the importance of iron ions?
The iron ions in the haem groups of haemoglobin bind to oxygen meaning it can be carried around the body to respiring cells.
What is the importance of hydrogen ions?
They determine the pH of substances. The more hydrogen ions there are the more acidic the solution is.
What is the importance of sodium ions?
They are involved in the co-transport of glucose and amino acids across cell membranes.
What is the importance of phosphate ions?
Phosphate groups are part of important biological substances like DNA, RNA and ATP. Also, the bond between phosphate groups in ATP stores a lot of energy.
