Question

Which among the following is a micronutrient?
(A) Potassium
(B) Phosphorus
(C) Nitrogen
(D) Cobalt

Answer 1

It is an element of hard grey metal. It is a part of vitamin B-12.

Complete answer: Micronutrients are nutrients which the human body needs in minute quantities to function properly.
Although required only in small quantities, their deficiencies can lead to critical health problems. Micronutrients are important because they protect our bodies against disease, slow the process of ageing and allow every cell in our bodies to function properly.

Now lets us find the solution from the given options-
1. Potassium refers to one of the seven important macronutrients needed by the body for optimum operation. As a mineral it is needed for regular physiological processes to be maintained. To support vital processes about 100 milligrammes of potassium are needed daily. It is a part of the body’s numerous cells.
2. Phosphorus is an important macronutrient, and after calcium, it is the second most abundant mineral in the body. This mineral is a component of all cells, including cell membrane, energy production (ATP), DNA and RNA, and homeostasis control for acid base.
3. Nitrogen is an important macronutrient which has a significant factor in the development of proteins that are important for the formation of genetic material in the body. The human body contains about 3 percent of nitrogen by mass, after oxygen, carbon and hydrogen; it is the fourth most important element in the body.
4. Cobalt is a micronutrient and is an essential aspect of cobalamin or vitamin B12 development. It is used to aid intake and process of vitamin B12 in the body. Cobalt also assists in the treatment of diseases such as anaemia and specific contagious diseases. Cobalt also assists in myelin repair work which covers and protects afferent neurons.

Thus, the right answer is option D i.e., Cobalt

Note: Minerals and trace elements are micronutrients which are important for the human body but only exist in traceable quantities. But much of the illnesses and disorders that people face today are due to a micronutrient deficiency.