Chapter 25.3, Problem 4QC

Summary Introduction

To review:

The chief role of K⁺ (potassium ions) in the human body.

Introduction:

The potassium ions are the important electrolytes present in the human body. The potassium ion concentration inside the cell is more as compared to its concentration in the extracellular fluid, which is approximately 3.9 to 4.5 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). In the cytosol, the potassium ion concentration is 139 mEq/L. The unequal concentration of the potassium ions in and out of the cell is maintained by the sodium–potassium ATPase (adenosine triphosphatase) pump and the high permeability of the potassium ions through the plasma membrane.