Final answer:
Over three quarters of phosphorus in our bodies is bound to calcium, mainly in bones and teeth. Phosphorus deficiency is rare, and there are risks associated with its excess consumption. Phosphorus is essential in many biological compounds and it is crucial to maintain a balanced calcium to phosphorus ratio for proper mineral absorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which of the following is true of phosphorus? The correct answer is: over three quarters of the phosphorus in our bodies is bound to calcium. This is because phosphorus is a key component of bones and teeth, where it is found as part of calcium-phosphate salts, making up 85% of the body's phosphate. Furthermore, phosphorus deficiency is quite rare since it is present in nearly all foods, and dietary deficiency is not known to occur in humans. Contrary to one of the options, there are risks associated with excessive consumption of phosphorus, particularly when renal function is compromised, leading to hyperphosphatemia. While phosphorus is found in many foods, including sodas and colas, it is not accurate to say it is found at high levels specifically in soft drinks. Lastly, phosphorus is not the most abundant mineral in the body; that title goes to calcium.
In terms of its functions and distribution, phosphorus is essential in many biological compounds such as phospholipids, ATP (adenosine triphosphate), and nucleic acids. In the soft tissues, the remaining 15% of the body's phosphorus is involved in numerous biochemical pathways. Proper phosphorus levels are critical for maintaining physiological balance and supporting cellular function.
It is interesting to note the relationship between calcium and phosphorus, as an imbalanced ratio can affect the absorption of these minerals. The optimal calcium to phosphorus ratio is about 1:1, ensuring efficient absorption. Deviations from this ratio can lead to the formation of insoluble calcium phosphate, reducing the absorption of calcium.