Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

Anatomy & Physiology

16. The Endocrine System

Introduction to the Endocrine System

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid?

Calcium (Ca2+)

Potassium (K+)

Magnesium (Mg2+)

Sodium (Na+)

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of extracellular fluid (ECF): Extracellular fluid refers to the fluid outside of cells, including plasma and interstitial fluid. It plays a critical role in maintaining homeostasis and transporting nutrients, waste, and electrolytes.

Learn about cations in the body: Cations are positively charged ions. Common cations in the body include Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Calcium (Ca2+), and Magnesium (Mg2+). Each has specific roles and distributions in intracellular and extracellular compartments.

Recognize the distribution of cations: Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid, while Potassium (K+) is the most abundant cation in intracellular fluid. Calcium (Ca2+) and Magnesium (Mg2+) are present in smaller amounts in extracellular fluid compared to Sodium.

Understand the physiological importance of Sodium (Na+): Sodium is crucial for maintaining osmotic balance, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction. Its high concentration in extracellular fluid is essential for these functions.

Review the options provided: Calcium (Ca2+), Potassium (K+), and Magnesium (Mg2+) are all important cations, but Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in extracellular fluid. This aligns with the correct answer provided in the problem.