Question

Calcium and _______ gives rigidity to bones and teeth
A. Oxalate
B. Pectate
C. Carbonate
D. Phosphate
E. Sulphate

Answer 1

Calcium is an important mineral required by the cells to perform various functions. In the body, calcium combines with a chemical to form a primary component of hydroxyapatite crystal. This provides rigidity to softer parts and in bones and teeth. It is compounded with calcium within the skeleton and teeth.

Complete answer:
Calcium is the fifth essential mineral that is required by the body after oxygen, carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen. Our body consists of $90$ calcium in the form of bones and $1$ in the teeth. It is present as a compound named calcium phosphate. Calcium phosphate provides strength and rigidity to the bones and teeth. It acts to provide structural support to the skeleton.
-Oxalate is an organic acid that is found in plants. In humans, it combines with minerals to form stones that can lead to body dysfunction. Moreover, when combined with calcium, it forms a lethal combination for the body.
-Pectate binds to calcium in the body to form calcium pectate that is used to remove small amounts of acid produced by cholesterol.
-Carbonate when combined with calcium makes calcium carbonate. It acts as an antacid in acidity conditions in the stomach.
-Phosphate and calcium combine and form calcium phosphate. Both calcium and phosphate are required by the body for various cellular functions. Calcium phosphate specifically serves to provide rigidity to bones and teeth.
-Sulphate with calcium makes two main hydrated forms that are plaster of Paris and gypsum. The plaster of Paris is used as a graft for bone damage. But it provides support externally and is not present inside the bones.

Thus, the correct option is Phosphate, option D.

Note: Except providing rigidity to bones and teeth, calcium and phosphate are essential minerals required for various metabolic processes. The deficiency of calcium phosphate leads to weaker bones and teeth. Also, calcium is required in neurotransmitter release. Thus, its deficiency can cause seizures.