Question

Why do animal cells have higher cytoplasmic concentration of K+ and not Na+?

Answer 1

Sodium and potassium are two electrolytes that are required for human survival. Electrolytes are positively and negatively charged particles that control the distribution of fluids throughout the body. They regulate the passage of fluid across cell membranes, which is important for maintaining a state of fluid balance and for the generation of action potentials and basically, every required voluntarily action in our bodies.

Potassium is found at higher levels in the cell and is a transporter that helps with cellular regulation. When potassium leaves a cell an electrolyte balance must be maintained in the cell. The exchange seen will be 2 Na and 1 H for the 3 k that left the cell.