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
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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