Question

During the mineralization of bones and teeth, calcium and phosphorus form crystals called hydroxyapatite. Then __ replace the __ portions of the hydroxyapatite crystal, forming __.

a) Magnesium, oxygen, hydroxyapatite
b) Fluoride, carbonate, fluoroapatite
c) Iron, sulfur, hydroxyapatite
d) Potassium, chloride, chloroapatite

Answer 1

Fluoride ions replace carbonate portions in the hydroxyapatite crystal to form fluoroapatite, which strengthens bone mineral and increases crystal density.

Step-by-step explanation:

During the mineralization of bones and teeth, calcium and phosphorus form crystals called hydroxyapatite. The components that replace parts of the hydroxyapatite crystal, forming a new compound, are fluoride ions that displace carbonate portions, resulting in the formation of fluoroapatite. This substitution helps stabilize and strengthen bone mineral, much like it protects dental enamel by increasing the density of the hydroxyapatite crystals.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Fluoride, carbonate, fluoroapatite.