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CHNOPSDescribe the amount and function of each of these six elements in the human body.

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Solution:

Six elements account for 99% of the mass of the human body. The acronym CHNOPS refers to the following elements:

C for carbon,

H for hydrogen,

N for nitrogen,

Or for oxygen,

P for phosphorus

and S for sulfur.

Oxygen is the most abundant element in the human body, making up about 65% of a person's mass. In addition to being a component of water (essential for biochemical reactions in the human body), oxygen is essential for cellular respiration.

Carbon is contained in all organic compounds, which is why carbon is the second most abundant element in the body, accounting for around 18% of body mass. Carbon is found in organic macromolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.

Hydrogen atoms make up about 10% of body mass. Hydrogen is in water, in the composition of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids, and it is also an important electron carrier.

Nitrogen is about 3.3% of body mass. It is found in proteins and nucleic acids. This element provides materials for the construction and maintenance of all organs and tissues and participates in the formation of hormones and enzymes.

Potassium makes up approximately 0.2 to 0.4% of a person's mass. This element is important as a cofactor and also in processes of the nervous system such as nerve conduction. Potassium is an important electrolyte as it helps nerve function and muscle contraction and helps keep your heart rate steady.

Finally, we have that sulfur is found in some amino acids and proteins. Sulfur is approximately 0.2 to 0.3% of body mass. Then, Sulfur is a mineral necessary for the formation of collagen, a protein that is part of the skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments.

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