Question

What is phosphorus used for biologically other than ATP, nucleic acids, and phospholipids? I understand ATP is converted to ADP and energy for cellular functions is provided by this process, but can't remember where this happens or what role it plays with nucleic acids. I read that phosphorus containing compounds are important in photosynthesis as well, but the article didn't describe what the compounds were. The last question I have is what is phosphorus used for in plants? I know it's a limiting nutrient, nut haven't read much else about it's role in plant functioning. Thank you.

Answer 1

Biological molecules such as DNA and RNA, it forms part of the structural framework of these molecules

Calcium phosphate salts assist in stiffening bones.

Hydroxyapatite is the main component of tooth enamel. Water fluoridation enhances the resistance of teeth to decay by the partial conversion of this mineral to the still harder material called fluoroapatite.

White phosphorus is used as a deoxidizing agent in the preparation of steel and phosphor bronze. It is also used in rat poisons and to make smoke screens (by burning) for warfare. Red phosphorus is used in making matches. The major use of phosphorus compounds is in fertilizers, especially in a mixture called superphosphate

ATP is present in cytoplasm and nucleoplasm of every cell.and is the primary energy transporter for most energy-requiring reactions that occur in the cell.ATP produced from oxidative phosphorylation is transported from the mitochondrial matrix to the cytoplasm, whereas ADP is transported from the cytoplasm to the mitochondrial matrix

so process takes place in mitochodrial matrix and cytoplasm

ATP is also found in the nucleic acid in the process of DNA replication and transcription

The production of sugars during photosynthesis and the conversion of these sugars into energy during respiration enable the plant to perform all other life-functions. When respiration is restricted due to a Phosphorus shortage, sugars are not converted into energy and they accumulate within the plant tissue. The accumulation of unused sugars leads to the purple coloration often seen with P deficiency. The low energy level within the plants is the underlying cause of the stunted growth typically seen with P deficiency. When energy is low, all plant processes suffer. Therefore, adequate P is essential to the process.

Compounds containing P such as NAD, NADH, ADP, and ATP, Al, Fe, Ca

Phosphorus plays a important role in photosynthesis and respiration process , energy storage and transfer, cell enlargement, cell division etc in plants . Plants must have phosphorus for normal growth and maturity.

The major use of phosphorus compounds is in fertilizers, especially in a mixture called superphosphate