inorganic ions

Question 1

hydrogen ions (H+)

Answer 1

Maintain pH levels in the body → high concentration = acidic / low pH
● Affects enzyme rate of reaction as can cause enzymes to denature

Question 2

iron ions (Fe2+)

Answer 2

Component of haem group of haemoglobin
● Allowing oxygen to bind / associate for transport as oxyhaemoglobin

Question 3

sodium ions (Na+)

Answer 3

Involved in co-transport of glucose / amino acids into cells
2. Involved in action potentials in neurons
3. Affects water potential of cells / osmosis

Question 4

phosphate ions (PO43-)

Answer 4

1. Component of nucleotides, allowing phosphodiester bonds to form in DNA / RNA
2. Component of ATP, allowing energy release
3. Phosphorylates other compounds making them more reactive (topic 1.6)
4. Hydrophilic part of phospholipids, allowing a bilayer to form