Question

Which of the following is a macronutrient?
(a)${ Ca }$
(b)${ Mo }$
(c)${ Mn }$
(d)${ Zn }$

Answer 1

Macronutrients are nutrients that provide energy and calories and are required by the body in large quantities. These macronutrients help in forming the structure of the bones of the body and in other major processes.

Complete answer:
- Minerals such as potassium and calcium are required by the body in large quantities for various functions.
- Out of the given options, calcium is required by the body in the highest quantity due to its role in building the skeleton, protein synthesis, maintaining potential across the cell membrane, blood clotting, etc.
- Calcium is an essential element along with phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and magnesium.
- The rest of the minerals are ‘trace elements’. They are required in the body for carrying out essential functions but in low quantities.

Additional Information:
- Molybdenum forms a component of various enzymes in prokaryotic as well as eukaryotic organisms. Molybdenum-containing enzymes have an important role in purine catabolism and protein synthesis. The average adult contains 0.07 mg in their body.
- Manganese is an important coenzyme for macronutrient metabolism, bone formation, and defense against free radicals.
- Zinc also forms coordination complexes with organic molecules like proteins. It is present in various enzymes and transcription factors. It also has an important role in apoptosis. Zinc also forms the important part of ‘zinc fingers’ that are structures required for reading DNA sequences.

So, the correct answer is ‘${ Ca }$’.

Note:
- The parathyroid hormone and vitamin D are responsible for bone formation by allowing the deposition of calcium ions.
- Lack of calcium in the body can lead to the softening of bones known as osteomalacia and osteoporosis in which the bone structure is affected causing brittle bones.
- Excess levels of calcium cause hypercalcemia, in which calcium is deposited on soft tissues. It also causes the formation of kidney stones.
- Examples of foods rich in calcium include milk products and fish.