Final: Chloride (Cl)

Question 1

Cl is the _____ of extracellular fluids.

Answer 1

chief anion

Question 2

What are the functions of Cl?

Answer 2

1. Maintaining osmotic pressure and water content of the circulation
2. Acid-base balance
3. Small role in determining electrical potential of nervous tissue

Question 3

Explain how Cl and bicarbonate ions work together to allow CO2 to be transported by RBCs.

Answer 3

RBCs pass by capillary beds and pick up CO2. CO2 is converted to bicarbonate (HCO3-). Bicarbonate diffuses into plasma, at the same time a Cl anion enters the cell to maintain electrochemical neutrality.

Question 4

Why do cows with a displaced abomasum often suffer from a metabolic alkalosis?

Answer 4

Cl secreted as HCl becomes sequestered within the lumen of the displaced abomasum and may not be available for reabsorption in the small intestine –> metabolic alkalosis

Question 5

How efficiently is dietary Cl absorbed?

Answer 5

80-100% (usually >90%)

Question 6

What often accompanies the movement of Cl ions?

Answer 6

Na cations

Question 7

What can Cl deficiency result in?

Answer 7

Metabolic alkalosis and hypovolemia, lethargy, poor performance

Question 8

What is fed to decrease occurrence of Cl deficiency?

Answer 8

Salt

Question 9

What can Cl toxicity result in?

Answer 9

Metabolic acidosis

Question 10

What is special about diarrhea and Cl?

Answer 10

Cl along with Na is lost from the body when animals suffer from diarrhea.
Can lead to circulatory collapse

Question 11

What 3 things increase Cl requirement?

Answer 11

1. Growth/pregnancy
2. Lactation
3. Exercise (sweat)

Question 12

What are sources of diet Cl?

Answer 12

Plant sources (grains, oilseed meals, forages)
Animal products (meat meal, blood meal)
Inorganis (salt, KCl, ammonium Cl, CaCl)