The kidneys respond to acid-base disturbances by:

Choice A reason: One slice of wheat bread is not the best source of potassium, as it contains only about 70 mg of potassium per serving. The recommended daily intake of potassium for adults is 4,700 mg.

Choice B reason: One wedge of cantaloupe is a good source of potassium, as it contains about 430 mg of potassium per serving. However, it is not the best source of potassium among the choices given.

Choice C reason: One banana is the best source of potassium among the choices given, as it contains about 420 mg of potassium per serving. Bananas are also rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

Choice D reason: One slice of cheddar cheese is not the best source of potassium, as it contains only about 28 mg of potassium per serving. Cheese is also high in sodium, fat, and calories, which can have negative effects on blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Choice A reason: Sodium (Na+) imbalance can cause neurological symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or coma, but not abdominal pain or urinary retention.

Choice B reason: Calcium (Ca2+) imbalance can cause abdominal pain, urinary retention, and confusion, as well as muscle weakness, bone pain, and cardiac arrhythmias. These signs are the result of an inadequate supply of calcium, which is essential for nerve and muscle function, as well as bone health.

Choice C reason: Chloride (Cl-) imbalance can cause acid-base disorders such as metabolic acidosis or alkalosis, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.

Choice D reason: Phosphates (PO4^3^-) imbalance can cause bone and muscle problems, such as rickets, osteomalacia, or tetany, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.

Choice E reason: Potassium (K+) imbalance can cause cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms, such as arrhythmias, palpitations, muscle weakness, or paralysis, but not abdominal pain, urinary retention, or confusion.