Biochemistry: Inorganic Molecules and Minerals

Vocabulary flashcards covering inorganic molecules, the biological uses of water, and essential minerals including nitrogen, calcium, and iron along with their associated deficiency diseases.

Inorganic substances

Simple compounds that occur without being made by living organisms.

Cooling (role of water)

The reduction of heat in organisms accomplished by evaporation through sweat and transpiration.

Support (role of water)

The structural function of water that gives shape and support to both animals and plants.

Transport (role of water)

The function of water in carrying oxygen and nutrients throughout an organism.

Metabolism (role of water)

The water-based function that supports chemical and metabolic reactions within living organisms.

Habitat (role of water)

The provision of an aquatic environment that serves as a home for organisms.

Nitrogen ($N$)

A mineral needed to make amino acids (protein), which also forms part of nucleotides (DNA) and chlorophyll.

Stunted growth in plants

A condition or disease resulting from a deficiency of nitrogen ($N$).

Calcium ($Ca$)

A mineral essential for the structure of bones and teeth, cell membrane permeability, and blood clotting.

Rickets

A calcium ($Ca$) deficiency disease occurring in children.

Osteoporosis

A calcium ($Ca$) deficiency disease occurring in adults.

Iron ($Fe$)

A mineral that forms part of haemoglobin in red blood cells to carry oxygen.

Anaemia

A disease caused by iron ($Fe$) deficiency, characterized by a lack of red blood cells or low haemoglobin.

Mineral Salts

Compounds that consist of metal and nonmetal.

Macroelements

Mineral salts containing elements that are need in large amounts by living organisms.

Microelements

Mineral salts containing elements that are needed in small amounts by living organisms.