What mineral ion is indispensable for the normal physiological cascade of human blood clotting at the site of a laceration?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. calcium ions
- Step 1: In the blood clotting cascade, damaged platelets release thromboplastin. Step 2. Thromboplastin, together with calcium ions (Factor IV), converts inactive prothrombin into active thrombin. Step 3. Thrombin then converts soluble fibrinogen into insoluble fibrin mesh. Answer: calcium ions (Ca²⁺). Why not the others: Iron is required for hemoglobin oxygen transport; sodium and potassium regulate nerve impulses.
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