Which term refers to substances that are inorganic elements essential to bodily function?

Which term refers to substances that are inorganic elements essential to bodily function?

• A. Vitamins
• B. Minerals
• C. Pharmacology
• D. Ion

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that minerals are inorganic elements essential to bodily function. They come from the earth and must be obtained in the diet, supporting roles like bone structure, fluid balance, nerve signaling, and enzyme activity. Examples include calcium for bones and blood clotting, iron for oxygen transport, and potassium for muscle and nerve function. Vitamins, by contrast, are organic compounds needed for metabolism but are not inorganic elements. An ion is a charged particle; while minerals can exist as ions in the body, the term that specifically describes the essential inorganic elements is minerals.

The main idea is that minerals are inorganic elements essential to bodily function. They come from the earth and must be obtained in the diet, supporting roles like bone structure, fluid balance, nerve signaling, and enzyme activity. Examples include calcium for bones and blood clotting, iron for oxygen transport, and potassium for muscle and nerve function. Vitamins, by contrast, are organic compounds needed for metabolism but are not inorganic elements. An ion is a charged particle; while minerals can exist as ions in the body, the term that specifically describes the essential inorganic elements is minerals.