Why is phosphorus an important biological molecule

The phosphorus is obtained by mining deposits of rock phosphate. Locally produced sulfuric acid is used to convert the insoluble rock phosphate into a more soluble and usable form — a fertiliser product called superphosphate. Adjusting the pH of the soil for efficient plant uptake of phosphate should be done prior to fertilisation. For example, adding lime reduces soil acidity, which provides an environment where phosphate becomes more available to plants.

When fields are overfertilised through commercial fertilisers or manure , phosphate not utilised by plants can be lost from the soil through leaching and water run-off.

This phosphate ends up in waterways, lakes and estuaries. Excess phosphate causes excessive growth of plants in waterways, lakes and estuaries leading to eutrophication.

Steps are being taken in agriculture to reduce phosphate losses in order to maximise the efficiency of fertiliser and effluent applications. Scientists make observations and develop their explanations using inference, imagination and creativity. Often they use models to help other scientists understand their theories.

The phosphorus cycle diagram is an example of an explanatory model. Diagrams demonstrate the creativity required by scientists to use their observations to develop models and to communicate their explanations to others.

Add to collection. Nature of science Scientists make observations and develop their explanations using inference, imagination and creativity. Go to full glossary Add 0 items to collection. Download 0 items. These values, which vary by age and sex, include:. Vitamins, trace minerals, and other micronutrients. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; chap Yu ASL.

Disorders of magnesium and phosphorus. Editorial team. Phosphorus in diet. The main function of phosphorus is in the formation of bones and teeth. Phosphorus works with the B vitamins. It also helps with the following: Kidney function Muscle contractions Normal heartbeat Nerve signaling. Fruits and vegetables contain only small amounts of phosphorus. Phosphorus is so readily available in the food supply, so deficiency is rare. An RDA is an intake level based on scientific research evidence.

It is set at a level that is thought to ensure enough nutrition.