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Multiple Choice
Which is the most abundant cation in the extracellular fluid (ECF)?
A
Sodium (Na+)
B
Magnesium (Mg2+)
C
Potassium (K+)
D
Calcium (Ca2+)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of extracellular fluid (ECF): The ECF is the fluid environment outside the cells, which includes interstitial fluid, blood plasma, and transcellular fluid.
Identify the role of cations in the ECF: Cations are positively charged ions that play crucial roles in maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function.
Review the common cations present in the ECF: The primary cations in the ECF are sodium (Na+), magnesium (Mg2+), potassium (K+), and calcium (Ca2+).
Consider the concentration of each cation in the ECF: Sodium (Na+) is known to be the most abundant cation in the ECF, playing a key role in osmoregulation and nerve impulse transmission.
Conclude that sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in the extracellular fluid, based on its high concentration and essential physiological functions.