Table of contents

Skip topic navigation

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

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Ions - Sodium and Potassium

Anatomy & Physiology

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Ions - Sodium and Potassium

Previous problemNext problem

Struggling with Anatomy & Physiology?

Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video

Multiple Choice

What is the principal extracellular cation?

Sodium (Na+)

Potassium (K+)

Calcium (Ca2+)

Magnesium (Mg2+)

Previous problemNext problem

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of cations: Cations are positively charged ions. In the context of physiology, they play crucial roles in cellular functions and maintaining the body's electrolyte balance.

Identify the location: Extracellular refers to the space outside the cells. The principal extracellular cation is the one most abundant in the extracellular fluid.

Review the options: Sodium (Na+), Potassium (K+), Calcium (Ca2+), and Magnesium (Mg2+) are all cations, but they differ in their primary locations and functions within the body.

Consider the role of Sodium (Na+): Sodium is the most abundant cation in the extracellular fluid. It is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction.

Conclude with the principal extracellular cation: Based on the abundance and role in the extracellular fluid, Sodium (Na+) is identified as the principal extracellular cation.