IMPORTANT IONS IN THE BODY (INORGANIC ION)

Inorganic ions in animals and plants are ions necessary for vital cellular activity. In body
tissues, ions are also known as electrolytes, essential for the electrical activity needed to support muscle
contractions and neuron activation. They contribute to osmotic pressure of body fluids as well as
performing a number of other important functions. Below is a list of some of the most important ions for
living things as well as examples of their functions:

K+, Potassium ions' main function in animals is osmotic balance, particularly in the kidneys. See
Potassium deficiency.

CO32−, The shells of sea creatures are calcium carbonate. In blood approximately 85% of carbon
dioxide, is converted into aqueous carbonate ions (an acidic solution), allowing a greater rate of
transportation.

PO43−, Adenosine triphosphate is a common molecule which stores energy in an accessible form. Bone
is calcium phosphate.

Fe2/3+. Haemoglobin, the main oxygen carrying molecule has a central iron ion.