Question

Which of the following is the key element in the regulation of cell metabolism?

(a) Hydrogen

(b) Phosphorus

(c) Oxygen

(d) Nitrogen

This question was addressed to me during an interview.

My question is taken from Cell Nutrients topic in division An Overview of Biological Basics & Enzymes of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

Correct choice is (b) Phosphorus

Easy explanation: The main role of potassium is to provide the ionic environment for metabolic processes in the cytosol, and as such functions as a regulator of various processes including growth regulation. Plants require potassium ions (K^+) for protein synthesis and for the opening and closing of stomata, which is regulated by proton pumps to make surrounding guard cells either turgid or flaccid. Phosphorus constitutes about 3% of cell dry weight and is present in nucleic acids and in the cell wall of some gram-positive bacteria such as teichoic acids. Phosphorus is a key element in the regulation of cell metabolism.