1.8 Inorganic ions

Where are inorganic ions found in the body?

• In solution in cytoplasm and body fluid, with some in high concentrations and others in very low concentrations.

How do hydrogen ions affect pH levels?

• High concentration of hydrogen ions makes the environment acidic or low in pH.

How do hydrogen ions affect enzyme activity?

• They affect enzyme rate of reaction as they can cause enzymes to denature.

Where are iron ions found in the body?

• Component of the haem group of haemoglobin.

What is the function of iron ions in haemoglobin?

• Allowing oxygen to bind or associate for transport as oxyhaemoglobin.

What is one role of sodium ions in the body?

• Involved in co-transport of glucose and amino acids into cells.

What is a second role of sodium ions in the body?

• Involved in action potentials in neurons.

What is a third role of sodium ions in the body?

• Affects water potential of cells and osmosis.

What is one role of phosphate ions in the body?

• Component of nucleotides, allowing phosphodiester bonds to form in DNA and RNA.

What is a second role of phosphate ions in the body?

• Component of ATP, allowing energy release.

What is a third role of phosphate ions in the body?

• Phosphorylates other compounds, making them more reactive.

What is a fourth role of phosphate ions in the body?

• Hydrophilic part of phospholipids, allowing a bilayer to form.