Table 42.1

-The intercellular concentration of three electrolytes is compared with the concentration of these electrolytes in fluid eliminated from the shark rectal gland in Table 42.1.Based on the data,which of the following is a likely function of the rectal gland?

Question

Table 42.1  
 
-The intercellular concentration of three electrolytes is compared with the concentration of these electrolytes in fluid eliminated from the shark rectal gland in Table 42.1.Based on the data,which of the following is a likely function of the rectal gland?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The table shows that the concentration of Na⁺,K⁺,and Cl⁻ in fluid eliminated from the shark rectal gland is significantly higher than the intercellular concentration in shark tissues. This suggests that the rectal gland is able to concentrate these electrolytes, and therefore, option B is a likely function of the rectal gland. Option A is unlikely because metabolic waste is typically eliminated through other organs such as the kidneys. Option C is not supported by the data provided in the table. Option D is not supported by the data either since there is a measurable concentration of potassium in both the intercellular fluid and the fluid eliminated from the rectal gland.