Inorganic ions Flashcards
1
Q
Where do inorganic ions occur?
A
In the cytoplasm and body fluids of organisms, some in high concentration and some in low concentration
2
Q
What role do H+ ions have?
A
Concentration of H+ ions determines pH, and therefore enzyme function
- high concentration of H+ ions = lower pH (more acidic solution)
- low concentration of H+ ions = higher pH (more alkaline solution)
3
Q
What role do Fe2+ ions have?
A
Binds to oxygen in haemoglobin to transport oxygen around the body
4
Q
What Na+ ions have?
A
Used in co-transport to carry glucose and amino acids across the cell surface membrane
- also needed for muscle/nerve activity
5
Q
What role do PO43- ions (phosphate) have?
A
Used in the structure of DNA and RNA, and energy storage in ATP molecules
- phospholipids which are essential to the cell membrane (phospholipid bilayer)