The following questions refer to comparative concentrations, permeabilities, and potentials under various circumstances. Indicate the relationship between the two items listed in each situation by following answer code.
-A. concentration of Na? in the extracellular fluid
B. concentration of Na? in the intracellular fluid of a resting nerve cell
A)A is greater than B
B)B is greater than A
C)A and B are equal

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The extracellular fluid has a higher concentration of Na+ than the intracellular fluid in a resting nerve cell. This is due to the activity of the sodium-potassium pump, which actively transports Na+ out of the cell and K+ into the cell. As a result, the concentration of Na+ in the extracellular fluid is higher than that in the intracellular fluid.

The Following Questions Refer to Comparative Concentrations, Permeabilities, and Potentials