GCSE Combined Science · key term

Mineral ion

Definition

A dissolved mineral nutrient that plants can absorb through their roots and use for growth.

Used by OCR

Specification B2.2b, B2.2f, B4.1b · Biology Paper 1, Biology Paper 2

An electrically charged particle of a mineral nutrient, needed in small quantities for healthy growth and cell functions.
Mineral ions are nutrients needed in small amounts for healthy growth and cell functions. Animals obtain mineral nutrients from their diet. Plants absorb dissolved mineral ions from the soil through their roots; these are transported with water to other parts of the plant.
Revise: Substances Transported by Organisms
A charged particle dissolved in soil water that a plant can absorb and use, such as a nitrate ion or magnesium ion.
Revise: Water and Mineral Uptake in Plants

1
Distinguish food molecules from mineral ions: food molecules can provide energy and building materials; mineral ions do not supply energy.
2
Link each adaptation to its function: a long root hair gives a large surface area, allowing more water and mineral ions to be absorbed.
3
Mineral ions are not taken up by osmosis: osmosis applies only to water.

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