1. Introduction: Elements
Biochemistry
Introduction: Elements

2. Elements 92 naturally occurring on Earth
Of these 92, 18 are found in living things.
Most common in living organisms: (SPONCH)
Sulfur-some proteins
Phosphorus- ATP, DNA, RNA (nucleic acids)
Oxygen- lipids, carbs, proteins
Nitrogen – proteins, nucleic acids
Carbon- lipids, carbs, proteins, nucleic acids
Hydrogen- lipids, carbs, proteins, nucleic acids

3. Elements
The 5 elements of most abundance (by atomic mass) in humans are (in order):
Oxygen
Carbon
Hydrogen
Nitrogen
Calcium-bones, teeth
“Old Cats Have No Claws”
(H is most abundant in
# of atoms, followed by
O & C)

4. Elements Trace elements Iron – hemoglobin (carries oxygen)
Iodine – thyroid gland function, metabolism
Sodium – nerve/muscle communication
Potassium – nerve/muscle communication