Which of the following best describes electrolytes in the human body?
Lipids used for long-term energy storage
Proteins that form cell membranes
lons from dissociated salts that carry electrical charges
Hormones that regulate metabolic rate
The Correct Answer is C
A. Lipids used for long-term energy storage: Triglycerides and fatty acids comprise the primary lipid stores within adipose tissue for metabolic fuel. Electrolytes are inorganic mineral salts that do not contain the hydrocarbon chains characteristic of lipids. They serve electrochemical rather than caloric functions.
B. Proteins that form cell membranes: Structural proteins and phospholipids constitute the lipid bilayer and associated transport channels. While some membrane proteins act as ion pumps, they are macromolecular organic compounds. Electrolytes are the specific charged particles transported by these proteins.
C. Ions from dissociated salts that carry electrical charges: Compounds such as sodium chloride dissociate in aqueous solutions into cations and anions like Na+ and Cl-. These particles are essential for maintaining osmotic pressure and facilitating action potentials across excitable membranes. They conduct electrical currents within physiological fluids.
D. Hormones that regulate metabolic rate: Thyroxine and triiodothyronine are organic signaling molecules produced by the thyroid gland to modulate cellular metabolism. Electrolytes are not chemical messengers but rather the foundational solutes that maintain homeostatic balance. They influence the environment in which hormones function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
False: Arterial blood gases (ABGs) provide definitive data on pH, PCO2, and bicarbonate levels, while serum electrolytes help calculate the anion gap. Together, these tests allow clinicians to differentiate between respiratory and metabolic origins of a disorder. They are the cornerstone of clinical acid-base assessment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. By increasing solute concentration in the plasma: Dehydration naturally increases plasma osmolality, which is the stimulus for ADH release, not its intended effect. The hormone works to dilute the plasma back to its homeostatic set point. Increasing solute concentration would worsen the hypertonic state.
B. By causing the kidneys to reabsorb more water: ADH binds to V2 receptors in the collecting ducts, triggering the insertion of aquaporin-2 channels into the apical membrane. This increases the permeability of the tubules to water, allowing it to return to the vasa recta. This mechanism conserves fluid.
C. By decreasing blood volume to balance sodium levels: ADH acts specifically to increase intravascular volume by reclaiming free water from the renal filtrate. Decreasing blood volume would lead to hypotension and exacerbate the clinical signs of dehydration. It serves as a vital pressor and volume expander.
D. By increasing thirst and suppressing urine production: While ADH suppresses urine production by concentrating it, it does not directly "increase thirst." Thirst is a behavioral drive initiated by the hypothalamus. ADH is a hormonal effector that manages renal water retention to stabilize blood volume.
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