Chemical Elements are Joined Together to form Biological Compounds

Chemical Elements in Biological Compounds

The basic elements of life are oxygen, hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen.
Other elements including phosphorus, sulphur, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium also have important roles within living organisms.
Trace elements are required in very tiny amounts but are essential for certain cellular functions. These include iron, iodine, copper, zinc, and more.

Formation of Biological Compounds

Biological compounds, also known as biomolecules, are typically composed of multiple atoms combined.
The vast majority of these biochemical substances are made up macromolecules, which include proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

Role of Carbon

Carbon has the unique ability to form stable bonds with other elements, notably itself, which allows it to form a wide variety of functional groups and chains of varying lengths.
Since carbon has four valence electrons, it easily bonds with hydrogen and other elements to form compounds necessary for life.

Role of Hydrogen Bonds

Hydrogen bonds play a vital role in the structure and function of biological compounds.
They contribute to the three-dimensional shape of proteins and nucleic acids and the secondary structure of DNA.

Biomolecules: Protein, Nucleic Acids, Carbohydrates, Lipids

Proteins are made up of amino acids, linked by peptide bonds. They serve as enzymes, structural proteins and transport proteins, among other functions.
Nucleic acids are made up of nucleotides, which include one of four nitrogenous bases, a phosphate group, and a sugar. DNA and RNA are types of nucleic acids.
Carbohydrates, made of simple sugars or polymers of sugars, provide energy and comprise cell structure.
Lipids are fat-soluble, nonpolar molecules that serve as cell membrane components, hormones, and energy storage.

Water in Biological Systems

Water plays a fundamental role in the constitution and interaction of biomolecules.
It allows the correct folding of proteins, the genetic coding by DNA and its transcription to RNA, among other essential functions.

Ionic Compounds in Biological Systems

Ionic compounds such as salts are critical for the homeostasis of the body and serve in nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction and hydration.
Ions such as sodium, potassium, and calcium interact with proteins and other organic compounds, thereby influencing numerous bodily processes.