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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the most abundant and important inorganic compound in living material?
A
Water ($H_2O$)
B
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
C
Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$)
D
Oxygen ($O_2$)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'inorganic compound.' Inorganic compounds are those that generally do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds, unlike organic compounds.
Step 2: Recognize the importance of water ($H_2O$) in biological systems. Water is the most abundant inorganic compound in living organisms, making up approximately 60-70% of the human body and playing a critical role in cellular processes.
Step 3: Compare the other options provided: Sodium chloride (NaCl), Carbon dioxide ($CO_2$), and Oxygen ($O_2$). While these are important, they are not as abundant or universally essential as water in living organisms.
Step 4: Consider the unique properties of water, such as its ability to act as a solvent, its role in temperature regulation, and its involvement in biochemical reactions like hydrolysis and dehydration synthesis.
Step 5: Conclude that water ($H_2O$) is the correct answer based on its abundance and critical importance in maintaining life processes in living material.