Final answer:
Phosphorus is a non-metal that is essential for DNA, animal tissues, and bones. It has various functions in the body, including the formation of bone and teeth and the synthesis of important molecules. It is also found in proteins, enzymes, and metabolites, and plays a role in antioxidant activity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Phosphorus is a non-metal that is an essential component of DNA and various animal tissues and bones. It has several important functions, including the formation of bone and teeth, phospholipids essential to every cell, and nucleic acids and derivatives. Phosphorus is also found in proteins, enzymes, and important metabolites, and it is used for the synthesis of non-protein nitrogenous tissue constituents. Additionally, phosphorus is a constituent of several essential enzymes and plays a role in antioxidant activity.