With the help of examples describe

Question:

With the help of examples describe the classification of essential elements based on the function they perform.

Solution:

i. Essential elements as components of energy-related compounds

Example: Magnesium in chlorophyll and phosphorus in ATP molecule

ii. Components of Structural elements of cells

Example: Hydrogen bonds are seen in the secondary structure of proteins, Carbon and Oxygen in proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids.

iii. Essential elements as Activator and Inhibitor of enzymes:

Example: Magnesium (Mg2+) is an activator of both Ribulose Bisphosphate and Phosphoenolpyruvate enzyme which are involved in photosynthetic carbon fixation.

iv. Essential elements which can alter osmotic pressure:

For example, Potassium plays an important role in the opening and closing of Stomata.

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