NAS 2 Chem Inorganic Compounds

Approximately what percentage of an adult's body weight is water?

About 60% (varies with age, sex, and body composition).

Which body compartment contains the most water?

Intracellular fluid (ICF), inside cells.

What is intracellular fluid (ICF)?

The fluid contained within cells; it makes up about two-thirds of total body water.

What is extracellular fluid (ECF)?

The fluid outside cells, including interstitial fluid, blood plasma, and other body fluids.

What are the two major fluid compartments of the body?

Intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF).

Why is water essential for human life?

It serves as a solvent, transports substances, regulates temperature, lubricates tissues, and participates in chemical reactions.

Why is water called the body's primary solvent?

Because it dissolves many substances needed for cellular function.

How does water transport materials through the body?

It carries nutrients, gases, hormones, and wastes in blood and other body fluids.

How does water help regulate body temperature?

Its high specific heat and evaporation of sweat help prevent rapid temperature changes.

How does water lubricate the body?

It forms part of saliva, mucus, synovial fluid, and other lubricating fluids.

Why is water important for metabolic reactions?

Many reactions occur in water or use water as a reactant or product.

What is dehydration?

A condition in which the body loses more water than it takes in.

Name two common causes of dehydration.

Excessive sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, inadequate fluid intake, or fever.

What are common signs of dehydration?

Thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, and fatigue.

Why is severe dehydration dangerous?

It decreases blood volume and impairs normal cell and organ function.

What is homeostasis?

The maintenance of a stable internal environment.

How does water contribute to homeostasis?

By maintaining blood volume, temperature, and the environment needed for cells to function.

What is osmosis?

The movement of water across a selectively permeable membrane from lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration.

Why is osmosis important in the human body?

It helps maintain proper fluid balance between cells and their surroundings.

Application: Why should athletes replace fluids after heavy exercise?

To restore water lost through sweat and maintain normal body function.

Application: Why do patients with severe diarrhea need fluids?

They lose large amounts of water that must be replaced to prevent dehydration.

True or False: Water participates directly in many chemical reactions.

True.

Exam Trap: Does drinking more water always prevent dehydration caused by severe diarrhea?

Not always. Electrolytes may also need to be replaced.

Rapid Recall: Which fluid compartment contains about two-thirds of body water?

Intracellular fluid (ICF).

Rapid Recall: What is the body's most abundant inorganic compound?

Water.