Question

carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen make up the bulk of the atoms in the human body. However, there are many trace elements present as well. Pick three of these trace elements and do a little Internet research to find out where they're found and what they're used for in the body.

Answer 1

A few examples of trace elements in the human body are :

1. Iron - Found in the earth's crust in the form of iron ore (haematite, magnetite etc). Some iron-rich foods are - red meat, beans, dark green leafy vegetables, raisins, peas etc. Iron forms a vital part of haemoglobin which is found in red blood cells (RBCs). It transports oxygen from lungs to each and every part of the body.
2. Iodine - Found in abundance in the oceans in the form of various salts. Some foods rich in iodine are - cranberries, iodized salt, cheese, yogurt, strawberries etc. It is important for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. Iodine deficiency causes goitre.
3. manganese - Found as oxides, silicates, carbonates etc in the earth's crust. Foods rich in manganese include - whole grains, leafy vegetables, soy products etc. manganese helps in the production of connective tissue, bones, blood clotting factors, sex hormones etc. It is also necessary for normal brain functioning.