Essential Minerals in Human Physiology

Study Notes

Electrolytes and Their Functions

Sodium: Crucial for maintaining fluid balance in body cells through osmosis.
Calcium: Essential for bone structure, heart rhythm regulation, nerve signal transmission, and muscle contraction.
Phosphate: Plays a key role in transporting compounds and molecules between cells.
Chloride: Contributes to maintaining healthy blood pressure and fluid levels throughout the body.
Magnesium: Supports bone and teeth development and is important for nerve and muscle function.
Bicarbonate: Helps regulate the body’s pH level, preventing conditions like alkalosis and acidosis.
Potassium: Vital for heart health, nerve function, muscle contraction, and nutrient transport into and out of cells.

Blood pH and Reference Ranges

Blood pH: Normal range is between 7.36 and 7.44, essential for metabolic processes.
Sodium Level: Normal serum range is 136 to 144 mmol/L.
Potassium Level: Reference range is between 3.7 to 5.1 mmol/L.
Calcium Level: Adults should maintain levels between 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL.
Chloride Level: Normal serum chloride range is 97 to 105 mmol/L.
Magnesium Level: Typical range is 1.6 to 2.6 mg/dL.
Phosphate Level: Normal range is 2.5 to 4.5 mg/dL (or 0.81 to 1.45 mmol/L).
Platelet Count: Healthy platelet levels should range from 150,000 to 350,000/µL (150-350 x 10^9/L).

Description

This quiz covers the crucial roles of essential minerals such as sodium, calcium, phosphate, chloride, magnesium, bicarbonate, and potassium in human physiology. Test your knowledge on how these minerals support various bodily functions and maintain homeostasis. Perfect for students studying biology or health sciences.