Moduel 1 : Nucleic Acids Flashcards
What is an inorganic ion?
An atom or compound with an electrical charge. An inorganic ions is one that doesn’t contain carbon.
What is an anion?
An atom that has gained electrons so has a negative charge.
What is a cation?
An atom that has lost electrons so has a positive charge.
What are five inorganic ions that play key roles in cellular processes?
- Hydrogen ions
- Iron ions
- Sodium ions
- Phosphate ions
- Calcium ions
What are the role of Hydrogen ions in cellular processes?
They determine the pH of a solution. There is an inverse relationship between the pH value and the hydrogen ion concentration. The more hydrogen ions present the lower the pH. In the body the pH has an approximate value of 7.4. Changes in pH affects enzyme structure, they become denatured.
What re the roles of iron ions in cellular processes?
There are two versions of this ion. Iron (II) ions also known as ferrous ions. Iron (III) ions also known as ferric ions. Iron (II) ions are found each of the four polypeptide chains of haemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen around the body. Iron (II) ions are also found in Myoglobin, which is found in muscles and has a similar function to Haemoglobin. Iron ions are also responsible for the transfers of electrons during respiration and photosynthesis, so they are key to the biological generation of energy.
