Question

Write the importance of phosphorus in living organisms.

Answer 1

Phosphorus is the eleventh most common element on the Earth and is also one of the major components of various biological systems. It is fundamental to all living things and is found in the DNA of every living organism.

Complete answer:
We know that phosphorus is one of the most common elements of Earth, and is fundamental to all living things. It is also non-renewable and it doesn't have any atmospheric source. Natural reservoir of phosphorus is mostly rocks, in which phosphorus is present in the form of phosphates. Plants absorb phosphorus through soil, when the rocks disintegrate. Herbivores and other animals obtain phosphorus mainly from plants.
Phosphorus is a key component in:
1. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)
2. RNA (Ribonucleic Acid)
3. Teeth and bones
4. Various biological membranes
5. ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

In humans and other animals, phosphorus is literally what holds DNA together. Both the DNA and RNA have a sugar-phosphate backbone. Phosphorus works with calcium to make bones and teeth strong. Phosphorus is also required for protein phosphorylation.

In plants, phosphorus is a crucial element. It is important for the following reasons,
1. It helps by supporting the transfer of energy in plants
2. It has a role in growth of new tissues and also in cell division
3. It helps by promoting root growth, setting of seed and flowering
4. Phosphorus is also used for food production, since it is one of the three nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) used in commercial fertilizers.

Note: Without Phosphorus living organisms will not sustain and cause decline in food production. In humans, deficiency of phosphorus can cause anemia, muscle weakness, confusion, etc. In plants it leads to discolouration of the plant as the stems and the leaves become purplish and plants become bluish green.