Inorganic ions

• What are inorganic ions also called?

  Electrolytes or minerals
• Why are inorganic ions important for living organisms?

  They are important in many cellular processes, including muscle contraction and nervous coordination
• What are the two groups of inorganic ions based on their required concentrations?

  Macronutrients and micronutrients
• What is magnesium's role in living organisms?

  It is an important constituent of chlorophyll and essential for photosynthesis
• What condition results from a lack of magnesium in plants?

  Chlorosis, which causes leaves to turn yellow
• How does a lack of magnesium affect plant growth?

  It often leads to stunted growth due to a lack of glucose
• What is the role of iron in living organisms?

  It is a constituent of haemoglobin, which transports oxygen in red blood cells
• What can a lack of iron in the human diet lead to?

  Anaemia
• What are phosphate ions (PO4) used for in living organisms?

  They are used for making nucleotides, including ATP, and are a constituent of phospholipids
• What is the role of calcium (Ca2+) in mammals?

  It is an important structural component of bones and teeth
• How does calcium contribute to plant structure?

  It is a component of plant cell walls, providing strength
• What are the four elements whose roles in living organisms should be learned?

  • Magnesium
  • Iron
  • Phosphorus
  • Calcium
• What are the key differences between macronutrients and micronutrients?

  • Macronutrients: Needed in small concentrations
  • Micronutrients: Needed in minute (trace) concentrations
• How does the structure of water relate to its functions in living organisms?

  • Water molecules form hydrogen bonds
  • These bonds contribute to water's unique properties, such as high specific heat and solvent capabilities
• What is the significance of the chlorophyll molecule's structure?

  • Contains magnesium (Mg2+)
  • Essential for photosynthesis
• What is the structure of ATP and its significance?

  • Composed of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups
  • Key energy carrier in cells