Inorganic ions (3.1.8)

Question 1

Where do inorganic ions occur?

Answer 1

• In solution in the cytoplasm and body fluids of organisms

Question 2

Name the types of ions and their roles?

Answer 2

• Sodium → co-transport of glucose and amino acids across cell membranes
• Iron → component of haemoglobin which transports oxygen
• Hydrogen → important in determining pH and thus affecting protein structure and enzyme activity
• Phosphate → important as a structural component of DNA, RNA and ATP