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Digital Biology: The Elements of Life

Members: Adriana Alay Annika Valle Alejandra Zambrano Ashley Zambrano Danna Delgado Fiorella Maza Luna Moreira Liz Pillasagua Naomy Echezarreta Zharick Reyes Daniel Párraga

"BioExplores"

Course: 1.°BGU "D"

Subject: Biology

This project explores some topics of biology to learn a little more about this science.

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Missions

1. Biolements

Biolements

Classification of bioelements 1. Primary bioelements:They represent about 96% of the mass of living organisms.They are the most important because they form the main biomolecules.Examples: Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Oxygen (O), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Sulfur (S).Functions: form proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and DNA. 2. Secondary bioelements:They are present in smaller amounts, but are still essential for vital processes.Examples: Calcium (Ca), Sodium (Na), Potassium (K), Magnesium (Mg), and Chlorine (Cl).Functions: involved in nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and water balance in cells. 3. Trace elements:Found in very small quantities, but indispensable.Examples: Iron (Fe), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Iodine (I), Fluorine (F), Manganese (Mn), Cobalt (Co).Functions: form part of enzymes, hormones, and vitamins that regulate body functions.

Bioelements are the chemical elements that make up living organisms.They are essential because, without them, biological molecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids could not exist.These elements are also found in non-living matter, but in living beings, they perform vital functions for life.

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2. Trace elements

1. Biolements

Trace elements

Trace elements are chemical elements that living organisms need in very small amounts, but they are essential for the proper functioning of the body.Although they are present in smaller quantities than other bioelements, they are vital for maintaining balance and carrying out important functions such as muscle contraction, nerve transmission, water balance, and the formation of body structures.

General Importance of Trace Elements*They are involved in the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems.*They maintain bone structure.*They regulate water and electrolyte balance.*They participate in metabolic and enzymatic processes.*They are necessary for the sustainability and biodiversity of ecosystems, as all living beings require them in different proportions.

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2. Trace elements

3. Ultramicroelements

1. Biolements

Ultramicroelements

What are they for?Ultramicroelements have very important functions, such as: • Helping enzymes carry out chemical reactions in the body. • Protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals (they act as antioxidants). • Supporting growth and development of body tissues. • Maintaining hormonal balance and keeping the nervous system healthy. • Strengthening bones, teeth, and the immune system.

Ultramicroelements are minerals that the body needs in very small amounts, almost microscopic.Even though they are found in tiny quantities, they are essential for the body to work properly.They are also called trace elements or ultratrace elements.

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2. Trace elements

3. Ultramicroelements

1. Biolements

4. The water

The water

* Important Properties1. Polarity: Water is a polar molecule, meaning it has an uneven distribution of electrical charge. This allows for the formation of hydrogen bonds between water molecules.2. Dissolving Capacity: Due to its polarity, water is an excellent solvent, especially for ionic and polar substances.3. High Heat Capacity: Water can absorb and retain large amounts of heat, which helps regulate temperature in organisms and the environment.4. Density: Water is denser in its liquid state than in its solid state (ice), which allows ice to float.

Water is a chemical compound (H2O) essential to life, existing in liquid, solid (ice), and gaseous (vapor) states. It covers 71% of the Earth's surface, although most of it is saltwater, and freshwater is essential for the development of life and human activities. It performs vital functions in the body, such as transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature, and eliminating toxins.

* Structure of WaterWater is a fundamental molecule for life, and its structure has unique characteristics that give it special properties.* Chemical CompositionMolecular Formula: H₂OElements: Two hydrogen atoms (H) and one oxygen atom (O).

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Excellent work, future biologist! 🧬You’ve shown great knowledge about bioelements, trace elements, ultramicroelements, and the properties of water. 🌊Your understanding of how each one helps living beings function properly is amazing. 💪✨Keep learning and exploring the fascinating world of biology! 🔬🌿

Here are some important examples: • Chromium (Cr): helps control blood sugar levels and improves the action of insulin. • Molybdenum (Mo): helps remove toxic substances from the body. • Selenium (Se): acts as an antioxidant that protects cells and strengthens the immune system. • Fluorine (F): strengthens teeth and bones and prevents cavities. • Cobalt (Co): forms part of vitamin B12, which is necessary to produce red blood cells. • Nickel (Ni): helps certain enzymes and hormones work properly. • Silicon (Si): keeps skin, bones, and hair healthy. • Boron (B): helps in the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. • Vanadium (V): participates in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. • Tin (Sn): helps in growth and development, although its exact role is not fully understood. Importance for health Even though the body only needs a tiny amount of these minerals, without them it could not perform many vital functions. • A deficiency can cause growth problems, weakness, hormonal issues, or cell damage. • An excess can be toxic, so balance is very important. The safest way to get them is through a balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, meat, fish, and nuts. In summary Ultramicroelements are minerals that the body needs in very small amounts but that perform very important functions: they help enzymes, strengthen the body, regulate metabolism, and protect cells. Even though they are almost invisible, we couldn’t live healthily without them.