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Multiple Choice
Which element is often involved in electron transport in biological systems?
A
Calcium (Ca)
B
Iron (Fe)
C
Magnesium (Mg)
D
Potassium (K)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of electron transport in biological systems: Electron transport is a process where electrons are transferred through a series of protein complexes and molecules, often involving redox reactions. This is crucial in processes like cellular respiration and photosynthesis.
Identify the role of elements in electron transport: Certain elements are involved in redox reactions due to their ability to gain or lose electrons. These elements are often found in the active sites of enzymes or proteins that facilitate electron transport.
Focus on Iron (Fe): Iron is a key element in electron transport because it is part of molecules like cytochromes and iron-sulfur clusters. These structures are integral to the electron transport chain, as they can alternate between oxidized and reduced states to transfer electrons.
Compare Iron (Fe) with other options: Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), and Potassium (K) are not typically involved in electron transport. Calcium is more associated with signaling, Magnesium stabilizes ATP, and Potassium is important for maintaining cell membrane potential.
Conclude why Iron (Fe) is the correct answer: Iron's ability to participate in redox reactions and its presence in key electron transport molecules makes it the element most often involved in electron transport in biological systems.