BIO NMDCAT Receptors
nmdcat.online July 7, 2026

A unique characteristic of the endolymph bathing the apical surfaces of hair cells is its

A. Extremely high concentration of sodium ions
B. Unusually high concentration of potassium ions
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C. Complete absence of calcium ions
D. High concentration of red blood cells

📝 Explanation

Unlike typical extracellular fluids, endolymph is rich in potassium and low in sodium. This high K+ concentration provides the electrochemical gradient that drives K+ into hair cells when mechanically gated channels open.

📖 Additional Information

  • Extremely high concentration of sodium ions
  • Unusually high concentration of potassium ions
  • Complete absence of calcium ions
  • High concentration of red blood cells

Unlike typical extracellular fluids, endolymph is rich in potassium and low in sodium. This high K+ concentration provides the electrochemical gradient that drives K+ into hair cells when mechanically gated channels open.

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