They are needed by every organism from bacteria and simple plants to man.
Some creatures even have bizarre uses for minerals .
An ancient form of bacterium still existing on earth eats iron for its energy and breathes sulfuric acid. Living organisms use minerals to activate enzymes, hormones and other organic molecules that participate in the growth, function and maintenance of life processes. Unlike most organic compounds, minerals are absolutely essential. Animals, plants or bacteria synthesize all of the organic compounds such as amino acids, vitamins, lipids and cofactors fundamental for life from carbon, nitrogen and hydrogen abundant in air or water. While humans cannot synthesize all organic nutrients, they are provided by other organisms in a balanced diet.