Essential trace elements are needed for many physiological and biochemical processes in both plants and animals.
Not only do trace elements play a role in biological processes but they also serve as catalysts to engage in redox – oxidation and reduction mechanisms.
[5] Essential trace elements in human nutrition, and other animals include iron (Fe) (hemoglobin), copper (Cu) (respiratory pigments), cobalt (Co) (Vitamin B12), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), chlorine (Cl), molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) (enzymes).
[7] Non-essential trace elements include silver (Ag), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb).
[5] The structural components of cells and tissues that are required in the diet in gram quantities daily are known as bulk elements.