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

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

Anatomy & Physiology

26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance

Electrolyte Balance

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2:58 minutes

Problem 2

Textbook Question

Potassium, magnesium, and phosphate ions are the predominant electrolytes in:
a. Plasma
b. Interstitial fluid
c. Intracellular fluid

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of electrolytes: Electrolytes are charged particles (ions) that help regulate fluid balance, nerve signaling, and muscle function. Different compartments in the body (plasma, interstitial fluid, and intracellular fluid) have distinct predominant electrolytes.

Define the three fluid compartments: Plasma is the liquid portion of blood, interstitial fluid surrounds cells in tissues, and intracellular fluid is the fluid within cells. Each compartment has a unique composition of electrolytes.

Recall the predominant electrolytes in each compartment: Plasma and interstitial fluid are part of the extracellular fluid and share similar electrolyte compositions, with sodium (Na⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻) being predominant. Intracellular fluid, however, has potassium (K⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and phosphate (PO₄³⁻) as its primary electrolytes.

Compare the options provided in the problem: Potassium, magnesium, and phosphate ions are specifically associated with intracellular fluid, as they are critical for cellular functions such as energy production and maintaining the cell's electrical potential.

Conclude the reasoning: Based on the distribution of electrolytes, potassium, magnesium, and phosphate ions are predominant in intracellular fluid, not plasma or interstitial fluid.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electrolytes

Electrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge, essential for various physiological functions. They help regulate nerve and muscle function, hydrate the body, balance blood acidity and pressure, and rebuild damaged tissue. Common electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate.

Fluid Compartments

The body is divided into different fluid compartments: plasma (the liquid component of blood), interstitial fluid (the fluid between cells), and intracellular fluid (the fluid within cells). Each compartment has a distinct composition of electrolytes, which is crucial for maintaining homeostasis and proper cellular function. Understanding these compartments helps in analyzing electrolyte distribution and balance.

Intracellular Fluid

Intracellular fluid (ICF) is the fluid found inside cells, making up about two-thirds of the body's total water content. It is rich in potassium and phosphate ions, which are vital for cellular processes such as metabolism, energy production, and maintaining cell structure. The balance of electrolytes within the ICF is critical for cellular function and overall health.