Question

The correct statement(s) about the concentration of Na\(^+\) and K\(^+\) ions in animal cells is/are:

• A. [K\(^+\)] inside the cell > [K\(^+\)] outside the cell
• B. [Na\(^+\)] inside the cell > [Na\(^+\)] outside the cell
• C. [Na\(^+\)] inside the cell < [Na\(^+\)] outside the cell
• D. [K\(^+\)] inside the cell < [K\(^+\)] outside the cell

Hint:

In animal cells, the concentration of K\(^+\) is higher inside the cell, while Na\(^+\) is higher outside the cell due to the sodium-potassium pump.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, C

Step 1: Understand the Ion Concentration Gradient.
In animal cells, the concentration of K\(^+\) inside the cell is much higher than outside, and the concentration of Na\(^+\) is higher outside the cell compared to inside. This is due to the action of the sodium-potassium pump, which actively transports K\(^+\) into the cell and Na\(^+\) out of the cell.

Step 2: Conclusion.
The correct statement is (A), as [K\(^+\)] inside the cell is greater than [K\(^+\)] outside the cell and (C), as [Na\(^+\)] inside the cell is less than [Na\(^+\)] outside the cell.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{[K^+] \text{ inside the cell } > [K^+] \text{ outside the cell} \text{and} [Na^+] \text{ inside the cell } < [Na^+] \text{ outside the cell}} \]