What would be concerning to us about a compound that behaves very similarly to phosphate ions?

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What would be concerning to us about a compound that behaves very similarly to phosphate ions?

2007-09-24 08:13:08 · 2 answers · asked by tessy5343 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry

2 answers

Such a substance would interfere with the biochemical reactions which involve phosphate ions. The most important is the addition and subtraction of phosphate ions from ATP. This is basically how chemical energy is used in cells. Arsenic behaves much like phosphate and this is why it is so toxic.

2007-09-24 08:22:03 · answer #1 · answered by Roger S 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋

It could be taken up into plants, and might be toxic to anyone eating those plants.

2007-09-24 08:16:58 · answer #2 · answered by Gervald F 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋