An Overview of Inorganic Compounds in the Body

Water and its Essential Properties

Inorganic compounds are smaller, less complex substances generally not associated with carbon, yet they are vital for life. Water constitutes 60-80% of living cells and is essential due to its high heat capacity, which stabilizes body temperature, and high heat of vaporization, which aids in cooling through sweat. Furthermore, water's polar nature makes it an excellent solvent, allowing it to dissociate ionic compounds like salts. It also participates in chemical reactions and provides physical cushioning for the body.

Salts, Acids, and Bases

Salts are ionic compounds that dissociate into ions, also known as electrolytes, which are crucial for nerve and muscle function. Acids act as proton donors, increasing the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) in a solution, while bases are proton acceptors that typically contain hydroxide ions (OH-). The balance between these ions is fundamental to physiological chemistry.

The pH Scale and Homeostasis

The pH scale (0-14) measures acidity based on hydrogen ion concentration; it is logarithmic, meaning each unit represents a tenfold change. Acidic solutions have a low pH and high H+ concentration, while basic (alkaline) solutions have a high pH and low H+ concentration. Maintaining a stable blood pH (typically around 7.4) is critical, as even minor deviations can be fatal to enzyme function. The body regulates this via the lungs, kidneys, and buffer systems, such as the carbonic acid-bicarbonate system, which resists drastic pH fluctuations by absorbing or releasing hydrogen ions.