The movement of water among the various body compartments is regulated by the presence of ____.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The movement of water among the various body compartments is regulated by the presence of sodium in the extracellular fluid compartment. Sodium is the most abundant electrolyte in the extracellular fluid, and it plays a key role in maintaining the osmotic balance between the intracellular and extracellular fluid compartments. When sodium levels are high in the blood, water moves from the intracellular fluid compartment to the extracellular fluid compartment, causing the cells to shrink. When sodium levels are low, water moves from the extracellular fluid compartment to the intracellular fluid compartment, causing the cells to swell.

The Movement of Water Among the Various Body Compartments Is