In the context of homeostasis, what is the largest compartment of body water?

• A. Plasma
• B. Interstitial fluid
• C. Intracellular fluid
• D. Extracellular fluid

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of body fluid compartments: The human body contains water distributed in different compartments, primarily categorized into intracellular fluid (ICF) and extracellular fluid (ECF).
2. Define intracellular fluid (ICF): This is the fluid contained within the cells, making up about two-thirds of the total body water.
3. Define extracellular fluid (ECF): This includes all body fluids outside the cells, such as interstitial fluid, plasma, and transcellular fluid.
4. Compare the volumes: Intracellular fluid is the largest compartment, containing the majority of the body's water, while extracellular fluid is divided into smaller compartments like plasma and interstitial fluid.
5. Conclude with the correct answer: Based on the distribution of body water, the intracellular fluid is the largest compartment, containing the most significant portion of the body's water.