1.8 Inorganic Ions

• Inorganic ions are found in biological molecules, bodily fluids, and in the cell's cytoplasm.
• Hydrogen ions (H+) are used for the regulation of pH.
• Iron ions (Fe2+) are used as the prosthetic group in haemoglobin.
• Sodium ions (Na+) are used for the co-transport of glucose and amino acids.
• Phosphate ions (PO4^3-) are used as components of DNA, RNA (nucleic acids), ATP, and phospholipids.
• Potassium ions (K+) are used for maintaining membrane potential.
• Chloride ions (Cl-) are used to maintain water balance by osmosis.
• Calcium ions (Ca2+) are used to regulate muscle contraction and nerve impulse transmission.
• Magnesium ions (Mg2+) are used for the activation of enzymes.