[09] Fluid Compartments Flashcards
What are “fluid compartments” in the human body?
Spaces in the body where fluids are stored or circulate.
How many main fluid compartments are in the human body?
Two main compartments: intracellular and extracellular.
What is the “intracellular fluid compartment”?
The fluid located inside the cells, making up about two-thirds of the body’s total water volume.
What is the “extracellular fluid compartment”?
The fluid located outside the cells, making up about one-third of the body’s total water volume.
What are the two major divisions of extracellular fluid?
Interstitial fluid and plasma.
What is “interstitial fluid”?
Fluid in the spaces between cells (excluding the vascular system).
What is “plasma”?
The liquid component of blood, in which blood cells are suspended.
What substances commonly dissolve in the body’s fluid compartments?
Electrolytes, nutrients, and waste products.
What is the role of the cell membrane in fluid compartments?
It separates the intracellular fluid from the extracellular fluid and regulates the exchange of substances.
What is the role of the capillary walls in fluid compartments?
They separate the interstitial fluid from the blood plasma and regulate the exchange of water, nutrients, and waste products.
What is “osmotic pressure”?
The force that draws water across a semi-permeable membrane due to a difference in solute concentration.
What is the role of osmotic pressure in fluid compartments?
It helps maintain the balance of water between the compartments.
What is “hydrostatic pressure”?
The pressure exerted by a fluid at equilibrium due to the force of gravity.
What is the role of hydrostatic pressure in fluid compartments?
It is the main force driving fluid exchange between the capillaries and interstitial fluid.
What is “edema”?
Swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues.
