Structure and Function of Inorganic Molecules

Inorganic molecules make up a significant part of living systems and play key roles in biological processes.
Water is an example of an inorganic molecule. It is essential to life, and is often called the ‘universal solvent’ because so many substances will dissolve in it.
The structure of water (one oxygen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms) gives it its distinctive properties, such as its ability to provide cohesion (holding cells together) and adhesion (helping plants draw water up from the ground).
Ions are another type of inorganic molecule. These charged particles are formed when an atom gains or loses electrons.
Common ions in biological systems include sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), and phosphate (PO4 3-), among others. These ions play critical roles in nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and bone formation.
Certain inorganic molecules, known as mineral salts, are crucial for healthy blood and bones. For example, the calcium phosphate in our bones gives them their strength.
Inorganic molecules can form impressive crystal structures. For instance, quartz (SiO2) forms long, six-sided prisms, while table salt (NaCl) forms little cubes.
Many inorganic molecules operate as catalysts in biochemical reactions. For instance, zinc (Zn2+) is a vital component of many enzymes and aids in the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
Others, including iron (Fe2+/Fe3+) and copper (Cu2+), help transport oxygen throughout the body, participating in electron transport chains for cellular respiration.
It’s essential to understand how the structure of an inorganic molecule relates to its function in the body to recognise its role in health and disease. For example, imbalance of certain ions can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure (excess Na+) or osteoporosis (lack of Ca2+).
These molecules, being inorganic, are often involved in energy transformation processes. For example, energy from the sun can be converted to chemical energy in photosynthesis, facilitated by inorganic molecules such as chlorophyll.
Finally, inorganic molecules like atmospheric gases (O2, CO2, and N2) participate in respiration, carbon fixation (photosynthesis), and nitrogen fixation cycles, highlighting again the importance of such molecules in life processes.