What is the importance of water content of the body?

6. Electrolytes

Electrolytes are chemicals that conduct electricity when dissolved in water. They regulate nerve and muscle function, hydrate the body, balance blood acidity and pressure, and help rebuild damaged tissue.

Electrolytes are mineral compounds. Dissolve in water to form ion Sodium Chloride (NaCl), Potassium Chloride (KCl), Calcium Chloride (CaCl), Sodium Bicarbonate (NaHCO3), Magnasium Sulphate (MgSO4)

When these mineral compounds dissolve in water, they separate into ions:

  • NaCl > Na+ and Cl- ions
  • KCl > K+ and Cl- ions
  • CaCl > Ca+ and Cl- ions
  • NaHCO3 > Na+ and HCO3 ions
  • MgSO4 > Mg+ and SO4 ions
  • Na, K, Ca, Na, Mg: are positively charged they are called cations
  • Cl, HCO3 and SO: are negatively charged they are called anions
  • Within the body the cations and anions are in a state of balance.
  • Electrolytes are expressed as milliequivalents per litre (mEq/L).