Elements of Life

Elements of Life

• Living organisms are made mostly of nine elements.

• These elements include: carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, sulfur, calcium, potassium, and sodium. Remember these with: CHNOPS + K + Ca + Na.

Carbon

• Carbon is the element most essential for life on Earth.

• It has the ability to form long chains of molecules, such as DNA.

• Carbon can form long chains because it is the main element that can bond, or attach, to four other elements at the same time.

• It exists as diamonds, graphite, and CO₂ gas.

• It is used in pencils, dry ice, and fossil fuels.

Hydrogen

• Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the Universe.

• It is found in water molecules.

• It is used as a flammable gas that is lighter than air and fuel cells.

Nitrogen

• Nitrogen makes up 78% of the air we breathe.

• It is used to make plant fertilizers and explosives.

Oxygen

• Oxygen makes up 21% of the air we breathe.

• It is found in water molecules.

• It is essential for burning and provides energy for industry and heating.

Phosphorus

• Phosphorus is present in DNA.

• It is used to make plant fertilizers and produce light in fireworks.

Sulfur

• Sulfur is used in body-building proteins.

• It is found in both oil and coal.

• It is used to create sulfuric acid.

Calcium

· Calcium builds bone strength

Potassium

• Potassium causes muscles to relax.

• It is used in batteries and explosives.

Sodium

• Sodium causes muscles to contract.

• It is found in table salt and sodium bicarbonate.