* Carbon (C): The backbone of all organic molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
* Hydrogen (H): Found in water, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids.
* Oxygen (O): Essential for respiration and found in water, carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins.
* Nitrogen (N): A key component of proteins and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).
* Phosphorus (P): Found in nucleic acids, phospholipids (cell membranes), and ATP (energy currency).
* Sulfur (S): Present in some amino acids and proteins.
These six elements make up over 99% of the mass of most living organisms. Other elements are present in smaller amounts and are also essential for life:
* Calcium (Ca): Important for bones, teeth, and nerve function.
* Sodium (Na): Essential for nerve impulses and fluid balance.
* Potassium (K): Essential for nerve impulses and muscle function.
* Magnesium (Mg): Required for chlorophyll (photosynthesis) and enzyme function.
* Chlorine (Cl): Essential for fluid balance and nerve function.
* Iron (Fe): Component of hemoglobin (oxygen transport) and some enzymes.
* Zinc (Zn): Required for many enzymes and immune function.
These elements work together in complex ways to form the structures and carry out the processes necessary for life.
