Cells, Tissue & Regulation Workshop: Fluid Compartments, Diffusion, Osmosis & Active Transport

This set of flashcards covers key concepts from the 'Cells, Tissue & Regulation' workshop, focusing on fluid compartments, diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.

What are the major fluid compartments of the body?

The major fluid compartments of the body include intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF), which is further divided into interstitial fluid and plasma.

What is the definition of osmolarity?

Osmolarity is the total concentration of all solute particles in a solution.

How does sodium (Na+) function in body fluids?

Sodium (Na+) is the most common extracellular ion, essential for maintaining fluid balance and membrane potential.

What happens to cells in a hypertonic solution?

Cells lose water by osmosis and shrink in a hypertonic solution.

What is the role of the Na+ K+ - ATPase pump?

The Na+ K+ - ATPase pump actively transports sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell against their concentration gradients, requiring ATP.

What is facilitated diffusion?

Facilitated diffusion is the process by which molecules move across the plasma membrane with the help of transport proteins, without the use of energy.

Describe the process of osmosis.

Osmosis is the movement of water across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration.

What differentiates active transport from passive transport?

Active transport requires energy (ATP) to move substances against their concentration gradient, while passive transport does not.

What are the consequences of excessive water intake?

Excessive water intake can lead to water toxicity, causing disturbances in sodium levels and potentially leading to swelling of cells.

What do proteins in plasma contribute to?

Proteins in plasma contribute to capillary permeability and colloid osmotic pressure, which helps regulate fluid balance in blood and tissues.