Definition

1. Noun:
   • A calcium ion: A positively charged atom of calcium (Ca²⁺), which is an essential ion in biological processes.
   • A factor in blood clotting: Specifically, calcium ions are a crucial component required for the coagulation of blood.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The release of calcium ions triggers muscle contraction.
  • A deficiency of calcium ions can impair the blood clotting process.

Advanced Usage

• In biochemistry: The term "calcium ion" is frequently used to describe the active, ionic form of calcium that participates in cellular signaling and regulation.
  • Calcium ions act as a secondary messenger in many signal transduction pathways.
• In physiology: Often discussed in the context of homeostasis and mineral balance.
  • The parathyroid hormone helps regulate the concentration of calcium ions in the blood.

Variants and Related Words

• Ca²⁺ (n): The chemical symbol for a calcium ion, indicating it has a double positive charge.
• Ionized calcium (n): Another term for calcium ions in solution, as opposed to bound or non-ionized calcium.
• Hypocalcemia (n): A medical condition characterized by low levels of calcium ions in the blood.

Synonyms

• Ca²⁺: The chemical symbol synonym.
• Ionized calcium: A descriptive synonym used particularly in medical and laboratory contexts.

Related Phrases and Terms

• Calcium ion channel (n): A protein pore in cell membranes that allows the passage of calcium ions.
  • Voltage-gated calcium ion channels are important for nerve impulse transmission.
• Calcium ion pump (n): A protein that actively transports calcium ions across a membrane, often against a concentration gradient.
  • The calcium ion pump in the sarcoplasmic reticulum helps muscles relax.

Noun

1. ion of calcium; a factor in the clotting of blood