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Multiple Choice
Plasma and interstitial fluid have ______ concentrations of nutrients and waste products.
A
similar
B
higher
C
identical to intracellular fluid
D
completely different
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Plasma and interstitial fluid are both components of the extracellular fluid (ECF), which exists outside of cells. They are involved in transporting nutrients, waste products, and other substances between cells and the bloodstream.
Recognize the relationship between plasma and interstitial fluid: Plasma is the liquid portion of blood, while interstitial fluid surrounds cells in tissues. These two fluids are separated by the capillary walls, which allow for exchange of substances.
Consider the exchange process: Nutrients and waste products move between plasma and interstitial fluid through diffusion and filtration across capillary walls. This exchange ensures that their concentrations remain similar to maintain homeostasis.
Compare with intracellular fluid: Intracellular fluid is the fluid inside cells and has a different composition compared to extracellular fluid. Plasma and interstitial fluid are not identical to intracellular fluid because the cell membrane regulates the movement of substances into and out of the cell.
Conclude the answer: Plasma and interstitial fluid have similar concentrations of nutrients and waste products due to the continuous exchange and balance maintained by physiological processes.