Question

What are the six key elements in living organisms?

Short answer

The six key elements in living organisms are Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Nitrogen (N), Oxygen (O), Phosphorus (P) and Sulfur (S). Each plays a unique and vital role in maintaining and promoting life.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying Element 1 - Carbon

Carbon (C) is a key element as it is the fundamental building block of life and forms the backbone of most biological molecules including carbohydrates, proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.

Identifying Element 2 - Hydrogen

Hydrogen (H) often bonds with other atoms in molecules like water and organic compounds, making it essential for life.

Identifying Element 3 - Nitrogen

Nitrogen (N) is a fundamental part of amino acids and nucleotides, building blocks of proteins and DNA/RNA respectively.

Identifying Element 4 - Oxygen

Oxygen (O) is used in processes like respiration and it’s a component of most organic and inorganic molecules necessary for life.

Identifying Element 5 - Phosphorus

Phosphorus (P) is an essential part of nucleotides and is necessary for energy transfer through ATP.

Identifying Element 6 - Sulfur

Sulfur (S) is vital for the functioning of proteins, which include enzymes that speed up the body's chemical reactions.