The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Based on the descriptions provided in the image, here are the correct matches.
- Lithium: This is abundant in the periodic table, as an electrically important precision metal in the family of alkaline.
- Sodium: This is a highly reactive alkali metal, an essential part of life, in the fluid of every living being.
- Iron: The most common and most important metal, known as a mineral nutrient.
- Iron: This substance is vital for oxygen transport and storage.
- Calcium: This substance is essential for building and maintaining bones, as well as teeth.
- Zinc: This is a crucial nutrient needed for the maintenance of a healthy immune system.
Explanation
Here is a detailed explanation for each match:
1. Lithium: The description points to a metal in the “alkaline” family, likely referring to the alkali metals (Group 1). Lithium fits this. The phrase “electrically important precision metal” is a strong clue, as lithium is the key component in modern rechargeable batteries (lithium-ion batteries), making it essential for electronics like smartphones and electric vehicles.
2. Sodium: As a highly reactive alkali metal, sodium is fundamental to life. It is the primary positive ion found in the extracellular fluid of animals. It plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, blood pressure, and is essential for nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction through the sodium-potassium pump.
3. and 4. Iron: These two descriptions both point to iron, likely highlighting its general importance and a specific function. Iron is arguably the “most important” trace mineral nutrient; iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder in the world, causing anemia. This fits the third description. The fourth description is more specific: iron is the central atom in the heme group of hemoglobin (in red blood cells) and myoglobin (in muscle cells), which are the proteins responsible for transporting and storing oxygen. This function is absolutely vital for aerobic life.
5. Calcium: This is the most abundant mineral in the human body. Its role in the structure of bones and teeth is its most well-known function. About 99% of the body’s calcium is stored in the skeleton, providing strength and rigidity. It is also vital for muscle function, nerve signaling, and blood clotting.
6. Zinc: This trace element is crucial for a healthy immune system. It is involved in the development and function of many immune cells. A zinc deficiency can impair immune responses, making an individual more susceptible to infections. It is also important for wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell growth.
