Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

What role do electrolytes mainly play in the body?

1. Assist in digestion

2. Maintain hydration and nerve function

3. Provide structural components for cells

4. Participate in metabolic pathways

The correct answer is: Maintain hydration and nerve function

Electrolytes play a critical role in maintaining hydration and nerve function in the body. They are minerals that carry an electric charge and are essential for various physiological processes. When dissolved in bodily fluids, electrolytes help regulate the balance of fluids, ensuring that cells remain hydrated and function properly. In terms of nerve function, electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride are vital for creating the electrical charges needed for nerve impulse transmission. This is crucial for communication between neurons and for muscle contraction, thus allowing the body to respond to stimuli efficiently. While other options address important functions in the body, they do not encompass the primary roles of electrolytes. For instance, while digestion is important, it is more closely associated with enzymes and digestive acids than with electrolytes directly. Structural components for cells are more related to proteins and lipids rather than electrolytes. Lastly, metabolic pathways do involve various minerals, but the primary impact of electrolytes is more aligned with hydration and nerve function rather than direct participation in metabolism.