Question

The correct statement(s) among I to III with respect to the potassium ions that are abundant within the cell fluids is/are:
I. They activate many enzymes
II. They participate in the oxidation of glucose to produce ATP
III. Along with sodium ions, they are responsible for the transmission of nerve signals.
A. I,II and III
B. I and III only
C. III only
D. I and II only

Answer 1

Hint: Potassium is an inorganic cation which is abundantly found inside the cell of animals. Along with the sodium, it creates an electric potential which is maintained by several voltage gated channels. This potential generated by Potassium is further used in neurotransmission, heart contraction and muscle contraction.

Complete Solution :
If we look at the first statement which states that potassium activates many enzymes then, it is true that potassium is known as enzyme activator and activates enzymes which are mainly helpful is protein synthesis.
- Moving on to the second statement, which states that Potassium does play an important role in oxidation of glucose to produce ATP, hence, this statement is also very correct. In the next statement, as already stated in the above statement, Potassium ions are found in abundance inside the neurons which are cells present inside the brain. When a shift in electrical polarity happens then there are some channels called voltage gated channels present on the membrane open up and Sodium which is present on the outside of the cell gushes and depolarises the whole membrane. Then through this mechanism, the III is also correct.
So, the correct answer is “Option A”.

Note: The role of the Potassium ion cannot be solely determined as it shows its effect mostly with the help of Sodium ion to generate the potential difference and that is how all three functions are carried out.