3.1.8 Inorganic ions Flashcards
1
Q
what is an inorganic ion?
A
an ion that does not contain carbon (there are a few exceptions)
2
Q
where do inorganic ions occur?
A
in the cytoplasm and bodily fluids of organisms
3
Q
each ion has a specific role, depending on…
A
its properties
4
Q
an ion’s role determines…
A
whether it is found in high or low concentrations
5
Q
which four inorganic ions does the specification require knowledge of?
A
- hydrogen ions
- iron ions
- sodium ions
- phosphate ions
6
Q
what role do hydrogen ions play?
A
- determine pH levels and acidity
- the higher the concentration of hydrogen ions the lower the pH
- enzyme-controlled reactions are all affected by pH
7
Q
what role do iron ions play?
A
- are an important component of haemoglobin and are key to how oxygen is transported around the body by red blood cells
- each of the four peptide chains in haemoglobin contains an iron ion in the centre
- Fe2+ temporarily becomes Fe3+ when bound to oxygen, until the oxygen is released
8
Q
what role do sodium ions play?
A
involved in the co-transport of glucose and amino acids across membranes
9
Q
what role do phosphate ions play?
A
- component of DNA, forms phosphodiester bonds with deoxyribose
- component of ATP, makes ADP more reactive through phosphorylation
