Halogen - Biological Role

Biological Role

Chlorine plays a major biological role in most higher animal life as acqueous choride anions, as part of the electrolyte makeup of inter- and intra-cellular fluids. It has been noted that the ionic strength and composition of these fluids is often similar to sea water. In humans, chloride is most commonly obtained in the diet from table salt. Excess salt intake can have health implications. Iodine are needed by our bodies in trace amounts, particularly by the thyroid gland. Its definiciency can cause goitre. The other three halogens have no known biological role.

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