Osmoregulation: Maintaining the Balance of Water and Mineral Ions in the Body

The video explains osmoregulation, the process of maintaining water and mineral ion balance in the body, which is crucial for cell function. It discusses how water and ions are lost through exhalation and sweating, processes we cannot control, and how the kidneys regulate these losses. The video also covers the breakdown of amino acids into urea, which is safely excreted by the kidneys. The importance of maintaining osmotic balance for optimal cell function is emphasized throughout.

What is the primary function of osmoregulation in the body?

• To control the balance of water and mineral ions

• To maintain heart rate

• To regulate body temperature

• To manage blood sugar levels

What happens to red blood cells when there is a higher concentration of water inside the cell compared to outside?

• They burst

• They lose their shape

• They remain unchanged

• They multiply

Which of the following is a process where the body loses water without control?

• Drinking

• Eating

• Urination

• Exhalation

What is lost through the skin when you sweat?

• Only water

• Water and urea

• Water, mineral ions, and urea

• Only mineral ions

How do kidneys help in maintaining the balance of water and mineral ions?

• By storing excess water

• By absorbing more water

• By converting water into energy

• By filtering and excreting excess water and ions

What happens to excess amino acids in the body?

• They are stored for later use

• They are used to build muscles

• They are converted into proteins

• They are broken down into ammonia and then urea

What is the final product formed from the breakdown of amino acids that is safely excreted from the body?

• Ammonia

• Urea

• Glucose

• Protein