biochemistry

• inorganic ions - also known as electrolytes or minerals
• micronutrients (needed in trace amounts) e.g. copper and zinc
• macronutrients -

  • magnesium - constituent of chlorophyll - essential for photosynthesis, mammals need it for their bones.
  • iron - constituent of haemoglobin - lack of iron can cause anaemia
  • phosphate ions - used for making nucleotides, including ATP and are a constituent of phospholipids
  • calcium - structural component of bones and teeth in mammals and provides strength in cell walls