Question

Explain the significance of sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium in biological fluids.

Answer 1

The cations of Na and K are present in red blood cells. The concentration gradient (the ratio $K^{+}:N{a}^{+}$) in mammals (humans, rabbits, rats and horses) is $7:1$. This ratio in cats and dogs is $1:15$. Work has to be done to establish this concentration gradient. This is done by various mechanisms involving sodium pump and potassium pump. These gradients control the development and functioning of nerve cells.
Chlorophyll contains $M{g}^{2+}$ ions. Chlorophyll absorbs sunlight and carries the process of photosynthesis.
$C{a}^{+2}$ ions are present as phosphates in bones of humans and animals. They play an important role in muscle contraction. Their deficiency causes malnutrition in children.
Both $C{a}^{2+}$ and $M{g}^{2+}$ ions catalyze the formation of pyrophosphate linkages which control the various biological systems.