Inorganic ions

Question 1

Name the four key inorganic ions in living organisms

Answer 1

Magnesium ions
Iron ions
Calcium ions
Phosphate ions

Question 2

What is the role of iron in animals?

Answer 2

Constituent of haemoglobin
Transports oxygen inside red blood cells
Lack of iron in human diet can lead to anaemia

Question 3

What is the role of magnesium in plants?

Answer 3

Component of chlorophyll
Essential to photosynthesis
If plants have no magnesium in soil = cannot produce chlorophyll
Leaves become yellow = chlorosis developed

Question 4

What is the role of phosphate in living organisms?

Answer 4

Used for making nucleic acids
Examples: DNA, RNA and ATP
Constituent of phospholipids
Found in plasma membranes

Question 5

What is the role of calcium in living organism?

Answer 5

Structural component of bones and teeth in mammals
Component of plant cell walls, which provide strength

Question 6

What are the 4 elements required for living processes?

Answer 6

Hydrogen
Oxygen
Carbon
Nitrogen