What is the most abundant inorganic substance in the human body?

• A. Calcium phosphate (\(Ca_3(PO_4)_2\))
• B. Water (\(H_2O\))
• C. Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\))
• D. Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\))

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the term 'inorganic substance.' Inorganic substances are compounds that generally do not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds, unlike organic compounds.
2. Step 2: Review the options provided in the question: Calcium phosphate (\(Ca_3(PO_4)_2\)), Water (\(H_2O\)), Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)), and Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)). Identify which of these are inorganic substances.
3. Step 3: Recall that water (\(H_2O\)) is the most abundant substance in the human body, making up approximately 60-70% of body weight. It is essential for various biological processes, including temperature regulation, nutrient transport, and waste removal.
4. Step 4: Compare the abundance of water (\(H_2O\)) to other inorganic substances listed, such as calcium phosphate (\(Ca_3(PO_4)_2\)), which is primarily found in bones and teeth, sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)), which is important for electrolyte balance, and carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)), which is a byproduct of cellular respiration.
5. Step 5: Conclude that water (\(H_2O\)) is the most abundant inorganic substance in the human body based on its critical role and prevalence compared to the other options.