inorganic ions
Where do inorganic ions occur?
In solution in the cytoplasm
Body fluids of organisms
How do they occur?
Some in high concentrations and others in very low concentrations
What does each type of ion have?
A specific role, depending on its properties
Ion Formula Role
Attached to other molecules as a phosphate group • In DNA
nucleotides, enabling nucleotides to join together forming
Phosphate PO4 3-
phosphodiester bonds • In ATP – bonds between these store /
release energy
Determine pH levels in the body → affects rate of enzyme
Hydrogen H+
controlled reactions
• Component of haemoglobin which is contained in red
Iron Fe 2+ blood cells • Transports oxygen around the body – oxygen
temporarily binds to it, so it becomes Fe3+
• Co transport of glucose and amino acids across cell
Sodium Na+ membranes • Involved in generating nerve impulses and
muscle contraction
inorganic ions 1
Where do inorganic ions occur?
In solution in the cytoplasm
Body fluids of organisms
How do they occur?
Some in high concentrations and others in very low concentrations
What does each type of ion have?
A specific role, depending on its properties
Ion Formula Role
Attached to other molecules as a phosphate group • In DNA
nucleotides, enabling nucleotides to join together forming
Phosphate PO4 3-
phosphodiester bonds • In ATP – bonds between these store /
release energy
Determine pH levels in the body → affects rate of enzyme
Hydrogen H+
controlled reactions
• Component of haemoglobin which is contained in red
Iron Fe 2+ blood cells • Transports oxygen around the body – oxygen
temporarily binds to it, so it becomes Fe3+
• Co transport of glucose and amino acids across cell
Sodium Na+ membranes • Involved in generating nerve impulses and
muscle contraction
inorganic ions 1
