Essential Mineral Elements: Definition, Function, Types

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 06:56 PM IST

What Are Mineral Elements?

Mineral elements are otherwise known as inorganic substances that turn out to be essential for living organisms to perform physiological functions. They participate in the maintenance of an organism's structure of cells, tissues, and organs and assist a large array of biochemical processes. They do not, however, serve as sources of energy. Nevertheless, mineral elements could be equated with nutrient requirements in promoting growth, development, and normal health.

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What Are Mineral Elements?
Classification Of Minerals
Essential Mineral Elements In Plants
Absorption Of Mineral Elements By Plants
Functions Of Mineral Elements In Plants
Role Of Essential Minerals In Human Health
Deficiency Disorders And Symptoms
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Besides all these, minerals are also needed in forming bones and teeth, maintaining a balance of fluids, contracting muscles, and transmitting nerve impulses. Enzymes and hormones largely depend on minerals as a part of them; they enhance the metabolism and activity of the cells. Deficiencies arise in many disorders of the organism.

Mineral elements fall into two major groups: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are required in relatively large amounts, for example, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium. Micronutrients are those required in smaller quantities yet are equally essential, such as iron, zinc, and iodine.

Classification Of Minerals

Minerals are broadly divided into the following categories based on the amount required by the body:

Macronutrients: Required in larger amounts
Micronutrients: Required in smaller amounts

Macronutrients

Macro means that the body needs them in a larger amount. They are required in all Physiological activities.

Calcium

It is responsible for bone and teeth formation, blood clotting, muscle contraction, and nerve transmission.
The sources of calcium are dairy products, green leafy vegetables, almonds, and tofu.
The deficiency symptoms are osteoporosis, rickets, and muscle cramps.

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Phosphorous

Its functions are in energy production - ATP, maintenance of the bone and teeth, and cellular repair.
The sources of this mineral are meat, milk, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
Weakness, bone pain, rickets.

Potassium (K)

Functions: Nerve function, muscle contraction, fluid balance.
Sources: Bananas, oranges, potatoes, and spinach.
Deficiency Symptoms: weakness, muscle cramps, and an irregular heartbeat.

Sulfur (S)

Functions: Protein synthesis, enzyme function, detoxification.
Sources: A source of this nutrient is in meat, fish, and eggs as well as in garlic and onions.
Deficiency Symptoms: Joint pain, muscle weakness, skin problems.

Sodium (Na)

Functions: Fluid balance, nerve function, muscle contraction.
Sources: This nutrient can be found in.
Sources: Nuts, seeds, whole grains, leafy greens.
Deficiency symptoms: Muscle cramps, mental disorders, osteoporosis.

Chlorine (Cl)

Functions: Fluid balance, digestion (it is a component of hydrochloric acid in the stomach).
Sources: Table salt, seaweed, tomatoes.
Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, fatigue, weakened immunity.

Micronutrients

Micronutrients are minerals that are only required in minute quantities but are also engaged in multiple bodily processes, including the activities of enzymes.

Zinc (Zn)

Functions: Immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing.
Sources: Meat, shellfish, legumes, seeds.
Deficiency Symptoms: Growth retardation, alopecia, slow wound healing.

Copper (Cu)

Functions: Iron metabolism, connective tissue formation, antioxidant defence.
Sources: Shellfish, nuts, seeds, whole grains.
Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, bone abnormalities, cardiovascular problems.

Iodine (I)

Functions: Thyroid hormone production, metabolic regulation.
Sources: Iodized salt, seafood, dairy products.
Deficiency Symptoms: Goiter, hypothyroidism, developmental issues.

Selenium (Se)

Functions: Antioxidant protection, thyroid function, immune response.
Sources: Brazil nuts, seafood, meat, eggs.
Deficiency Symptoms: Keshan disease, immune dysfunction, thyroid issues.

Molybdenum (Mo)

Functions: Enzyme function, detoxification.
Sources: Legumes, grains, nuts.
Deficiency Symptoms: Rare, metabolic issues, neurological symptoms.

Essential Mineral Elements In Plants

Mineral elements are indispensable for the growth, development, and overall well-being of plants to flourish. They are taken from the soil and participate in photosynthesis, transport, and structural integrity.

Absorption of Mineral Elements
Transport from root to shoot
Role in metabolic processes

Absorption Of Mineral Elements By Plants

Plants normally take up minerals from the soil through their root based on several processes of both active and passive transport.

Root hairs which increase surface area
Mycorrhizal associations enhance uptake
Active transport processes

Functions Of Mineral Elements In Plants

The functions of mineral elements in plants are many and involve the synthesis of nutrients, cell division, and disease resistance in the development of plants.

Photosynthesis and chlorophyll production
Enzyme activation and activity
Structural support and growth

Role Of Essential Minerals In Human Health

Essential minerals are vital for many functions of the body and hence for good health. Minerals contribute to the structural formation of the body and the proper functioning and regulation of a plethora of biological functions.

Bone Health

Calcium, Phosphorus and Magnesium

Blood And Oxygen Transport

The function of iron

Nerve Function And Muscle Contraction

The role of potassium, sodium, and calcium

Enzyme Function And Metabolism

The role of zinc, copper, and manganese

Deficiency Disorders And Symptoms

Due to the deficiency of vital minerals, it can cause various health disorders and symptoms and affect well-being and many different functions of the body.

Osteoporosis
Anemia
Goiter

Diagnosis And Treatment

Diagnostic tests
Supplementation and dietary adjustments

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are essential mineral elements, and why are they important?

Essential mineral elements are the inorganic substances that are essential to the various physiological functions in the body, such as providing structural support, metabolic processes, and keeping healthy fit.

2. What is the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients?

The basic difference between macronutrients and micronutrients is that macronutrient elements are needed in much larger numbers in the body and include calcium and potassium, while micronutrients are needed in smaller numbers—such as iron and zinc.

3. What is the difference between macronutrients and micronutrients?

Macronutrients are essential elements required by plants in relatively large quantities (usually more than 0.1% of dry plant weight). Examples include nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Micronutrients, also called trace elements, are required in much smaller amounts (usually less than 0.01% of dry plant weight). Examples include iron, zinc, and manganese.

4. How are essential minerals absorbed from the soil by plants?

Different mechanisms by which the essential minerals are taken up by plants from the soil include both active and passive transports made possible with a large enhancement in the surface area around roots by the root hairs and mycorrhizal associations.

5. What are common deficiency symptoms associated with essential minerals?

Commonly occurring deficiency symptoms for these essential minerals include osteoporosis due to calcium, anaemia induced by iron, and goitre because of iodine.

6. What are the best dietary sources of essential minerals?

Good sources for a wide range of essential minerals in diets would include fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, dairy products, and cereals.

7. How do plants absorb mineral nutrients from the soil?

Plants absorb mineral nutrients from the soil primarily through their roots. The process involves:

8. What is the importance of soil pH in mineral nutrition?

Soil pH affects the availability of mineral nutrients to plants. Different nutrients are more or less soluble at different pH levels. For example, iron, manganese, and zinc are more available in acidic soils, while calcium and magnesium are more available in alkaline soils. Maintaining the right soil pH is crucial for optimal nutrient uptake by plants.

9. How does chlorine contribute to plant osmoregulation?

Chlorine, although often overlooked, is important for plant osmoregulation. It:

10. What is the concept of nutrient mobility in plants?

Nutrient mobility refers to the ability of nutrients to move within the plant after they've been absorbed. Mobile nutrients (like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) can be redistributed from older to younger tissues when the plant experiences deficiency. Immobile nutrients (like calcium and boron) cannot be easily redistributed, so deficiency symptoms appear first in younger tissues.

11. How does silicon benefit plants, even though it's not considered essential for all species?

While silicon is not considered essential for all plants, it provides several benefits:

12. What is the role of beneficial elements in plant nutrition?

Beneficial elements are those that promote plant growth or may be essential for only certain plant species. Examples include silicon, sodium, and cobalt. These elements can:

13. What is the importance of nutrient balance in plant nutrition?

Nutrient balance is crucial because:

14. How do heavy metals affect plant mineral nutrition?

Heavy metals can interfere with plant mineral nutrition in several ways:

15. What is the importance of nickel as a micronutrient?

Nickel is the most recently recognized essential micronutrient for plants. It plays important roles in:

16. Why do plants need nitrogen, and what happens if they don't get enough?

Plants need nitrogen for the synthesis of amino acids, proteins, nucleic acids, and chlorophyll. Nitrogen is crucial for plant growth and development. If plants don't get enough nitrogen, they may exhibit stunted growth, yellowing of leaves (chlorosis), and reduced crop yield.

17. How does zinc deficiency affect plant growth and development?

Zinc deficiency can lead to various growth and developmental issues in plants, including:

18. How do plants respond to copper deficiency?

Copper deficiency in plants can lead to:

19. How does boron contribute to plant reproduction?

Boron plays a crucial role in plant reproduction by:

20. What is the function of molybdenum in nitrogen metabolism?

Molybdenum is a key component of enzymes involved in nitrogen metabolism, particularly nitrate reductase and nitrogenase. These enzymes are essential for:

21. What are essential mineral elements in plants?

Essential mineral elements are inorganic nutrients that plants require for their growth, development, and completion of their life cycle. These elements cannot be synthesized by the plant and must be obtained from the environment. They play crucial roles in various physiological and biochemical processes within the plant.

22. How do scientists determine if an element is essential for plant growth?

Scientists use three criteria to determine if an element is essential for plant growth:

23. Why is iron considered a micronutrient despite its importance in plant growth?

Iron is classified as a micronutrient because plants require it in relatively small amounts compared to macronutrients. However, it plays crucial roles in various plant processes, including chlorophyll synthesis, photosynthesis, and respiration. Iron is essential for the formation of certain enzymes and proteins involved in electron transport chains.

24. What is the role of manganese in photosynthesis?

Manganese is crucial for photosynthesis in several ways:

25. How does phosphorus contribute to plant growth?

Phosphorus is essential for energy transfer in plants. It's a key component of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), nucleic acids, and phospholipids. Phosphorus promotes root development, flowering, seed formation, and overall plant vigor. It also helps plants use and store energy from photosynthesis more efficiently.

26. What role does potassium play in plant nutrition?

Potassium is crucial for various plant functions, including:

27. Why is calcium important for plant cell walls?

Calcium is a key structural component of plant cell walls. It forms calcium pectate, which acts as a cementing agent between cell walls, providing strength and rigidity to plant tissues. Calcium also plays a role in cell division, cell elongation, and membrane stability.

28. How does magnesium contribute to photosynthesis?

Magnesium is a central atom in the chlorophyll molecule, which is essential for photosynthesis. It helps capture light energy and convert it into chemical energy. Magnesium also activates many enzymes involved in photosynthesis and other metabolic processes.

29. What is the role of sulfur in plants?

Sulfur is a component of some amino acids (cysteine and methionine) and is therefore essential for protein synthesis. It's also involved in the formation of chlorophyll and in the activation of certain enzymes. Sulfur contributes to plant growth, stress tolerance, and the production of some vitamins and flavor compounds in plants.

30. What is the importance of micronutrients in enzyme function?

Micronutrients play crucial roles in enzyme function:

31. What is the importance of molybdenum in symbiotic nitrogen fixation?

Molybdenum is crucial for symbiotic nitrogen fixation:

32. What is the role of nickel in plant defense mechanisms?

Nickel contributes to plant defense mechanisms in several ways:

33. How does zinc influence plant hormone production and function?

Zinc influences plant hormone production and function in several ways:

34. What is the role of cobalt in legume nitrogen fixation?

Cobalt is not essential for all plants but is crucial for legumes. It:

35. How do plants adapt to low phosphorus availability in soil?

Plants have developed several adaptations to cope with low phosphorus availability:

36. How does sodium function in C4 and CAM plants?

While sodium is not essential for most plants, it plays a specific role in C4 and CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants:

37. What is luxury consumption in plant mineral nutrition?

Luxury consumption refers to the uptake of nutrients by plants in excess of their immediate growth requirements. This occurs when a particular nutrient is abundantly available. While not immediately used, these excess nutrients can be stored and utilized later when the nutrient becomes less available in the environment.

38. How do plants respond to nutrient deficiency stress?

Plants respond to nutrient deficiency stress through various mechanisms:

39. How does nutrient availability affect root-to-shoot ratio in plants?

Nutrient availability can significantly influence the root-to-shoot ratio:

40. How do plants regulate iron uptake and storage?

Plants regulate iron uptake and storage through several mechanisms:

41. What is the concept of nutrient use efficiency in plants?

Nutrient use efficiency refers to a plant's ability to produce biomass or yield per unit of nutrient absorbed. It involves:

42. How does boron deficiency affect cell wall formation?

Boron deficiency affects cell wall formation in several ways:

43. What is the role of calcium in plant signaling and stress responses?

Calcium plays a crucial role in plant signaling and stress responses:

44. How do plants adapt to saline soils in terms of mineral nutrition?

Plants adapt to saline soils through various strategies:

45. What is the role of silicon in plant defense against biotic and abiotic stresses?

Silicon enhances plant defense against biotic and abiotic stresses:

46. How does phosphorus deficiency affect root system architecture?

Phosphorus deficiency significantly impacts root system architecture:

47. What is the concept of nutrient interactions in plant mineral nutrition?

Nutrient interactions refer to how the presence or absence of one nutrient affects the uptake, transport, or function of another. These interactions can be: