1.8 Inorganic Ions

• Where are inorganic ions found in the body?

  In solution in cytoplasm and body fluid, some in high concentrations and others in very low concentrations.
• Describe the role of hydrogen (H+) ions

  ● Maintain pH levels in the body → high conc. = acidic / low pH

  ● Affects enzyme rate of reaction as can cause enzymes to denature
• Describe the role of iron (Fe2+) ions

  ● Component of haem group of haemoglobin

  ● Allowing oxygen to bind / associate for transport as oxyhaemoglobin
• Describe the role of sodium (Na+) ions

  • Involved in co-transport of glucose / amino acids into cells
  • Involved in action potentials in neurons
  • Affects water potential of cells / osmosis
• Describe role of phosphate (PO4^3-) ions

  • Component of nucleotides, allowing phosphodiester bonds to form in DNA / RNA
  • Component of ATP, allowing energy release
  • Phosphorylates other compounds making them more reactive
  • Hydrophilic part of phospholipids, allowing a bilayer to form