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

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Introduction to Eukaryotic Organelles

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Introduction to Eukaryotic Organelles

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Problem 3

Textbook Question

What are the two fluid compartments in the body, and how are they kept separate?

Verified step by step guidance

The two main fluid compartments in the body are the intracellular fluid (ICF) and the extracellular fluid (ECF). The intracellular fluid is the fluid inside cells, while the extracellular fluid is the fluid outside cells, which includes interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) and plasma (fluid in the blood).

The separation between these compartments is maintained by cellular membranes. The plasma membrane of cells acts as a selective barrier, allowing certain substances to pass while restricting others.

The plasma membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins. This structure allows the membrane to be selectively permeable, meaning it permits the movement of small, nonpolar molecules (like oxygen and carbon dioxide) while restricting larger or charged molecules.

Transport mechanisms such as diffusion, osmosis, and active transport help regulate the movement of substances between the intracellular and extracellular compartments, ensuring proper balance and function.

Additionally, the extracellular fluid is further divided by the capillary walls, which separate the plasma from the interstitial fluid. These walls allow selective exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the blood and tissues.

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Key Concepts

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

Fluid Compartments

The human body is divided into two primary fluid compartments: the intracellular fluid (ICF) and the extracellular fluid (ECF). The ICF is the fluid within cells, making up about two-thirds of total body water, while the ECF includes all fluid outside the cells, such as interstitial fluid and plasma. Understanding these compartments is crucial for grasping how fluids are distributed and function within the body.

Cell Membrane

The cell membrane is a selectively permeable barrier that separates the intracellular fluid from the extracellular fluid. It is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with embedded proteins that regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. This selective permeability is essential for maintaining homeostasis and allowing cells to control their internal environment.

Osmosis and Diffusion

Osmosis and diffusion are key processes that govern the movement of water and solutes between the ICF and ECF. Osmosis refers specifically to the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher concentration. Diffusion involves the movement of solutes from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration, both of which help maintain the balance of fluids in the body.