B3.3.5 - Responding To Osmotic Changes Flashcards
On average, how much water do you need to take in per day?
2 Litres
Why might you need to consume more water than usual?
Strenuous exercise, high temperatures which cause water loss due to sweating
What triggers the thirst response?
A reduction of the water potential in your plasma or an increase in salt concentration
How is the thirst response created?
An impulse is sent to your brain which tells you to take more fluids
How does the kidney react to the thirst response?
It produces less urine
How do you get dehydration?
Not taking more fluids after the thirst response
What are symptoms of dehydration?
Passing of dark, concentrated urine
Lack of energy
Headaches and dizziness
What happens if you stay dehydrated for a long time?
Your kidneys and livers will become permanently damaged and you may die
What does taking in too much water cause?
The water potential of your plasma to rise above the water potential of your cells
How does the kidney respond to taking in too much water?
Produces more urine
What may happen if you consume large amounts of water too quickly?
Water will diffuse from the plasma into your cells, causing them to burst, and lack of concentration of sodium in your blood can lead to muscle cramping, confusion and seizures
How can you die from water intoxication?
When you drink so much water that it diffuses into your brain cells from osmosis
What are sports drink widely used for?
Rehydration
What are the 3 types of sports drinks?
Hypertonic
Hypotonic
Isotonic
Why do some people believe sports drink do not enhance performance?
There is limited scientific evidence
