In the Body, Inorganic Compounds

Question

In the body, inorganic compounds
A) can serve as buffers.
B) can make up proteins.
C) are made from organic compounds.
D) are structural components of cells.
E) are metabolized for cellular energy.

Accepted Answer

Inorganic compounds can act as buffers in the body, helping to maintain a stable pH by accepting or donating ions. Examples of inorganic buffers include bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and phosphate ions (HPO42-).

Answer: D 
 Inorganic compounds, such as calcium phosphate, make up the mineralized matrix of bones and teeth. Other inorganic compounds, like iron in hemoglobin, also play structural roles in cells.

Answer: E 
 While organic compounds like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are the primary sources of cellular energy, some inorganic compounds like ATP (adenosine triphosphate) are also used as sources of energy in metabolic reactions. However, inorganic compounds are not a major source of energy for cells compared to organic compounds.