Electrolyte - Physiology

An electrolyte is a substance which dissociates into free ions when dissolved (or molten), to produce an electrically conductive medium. Because they generally consist of ions in solution, electrolytes are also known as ionic solutions. They are sometimes referred to in abbreviated jargon as lytes. Electrolytes generally exist as acids, bases or salts. An electrolyte may be described as concentrated if it has a high concentration of ions; or dilute, a low concentration of ions. If a high pr ...

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• Electrolyte - Physiology
• Electrolyte - Nutrition
• Electrolyte - Uses in electrochemistry

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In physiology, the primary ions of electrolytes are sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, phosphate, and bicarbonate. All higher lifeforms require a subtle and complex electrolyte balance between the intracellular and extracellular milieu. In particular, the maintenance of precise osmotic gradients of electrolytes is important. Such gradients affect and regulate the hydration of the body, blood pH, and a ...

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Electrolyte, Electrolyte - Physiology, Electrolyte - Nutrition, Electrolyte - Uses in electrochemistry

Read more here: » Electrolyte: Encyclopedia II - Electrolyte - Physiology

Electrolyte drinks containing sodium and potassium salts are used to replenish the body's water and electrolyte levels after dehydration caused by exercise, diaphoresis, diarrhea, vomiting or starvation. Giving pure water to such a person is not the best way to restore fluid levels, because it dilutes the salts inside the body's cells and interferes with their chemical functions. This can lead to water intoxication. Sports drinks such as Gatorade are electrolyte drinks with large amounts of added carbohydrates, such as glucose, to pro ...

See also:

Electrolyte, Electrolyte - Physiology, Electrolyte - Nutrition, Electrolyte - Uses in electrochemistry

Read more here: » Electrolyte: Encyclopedia II - Electrolyte - Nutrition