If a body does not have enough potassium, which of the following is most likely to be affected in terms of cell signaling?

• A. The generation of action potentials in neurons
• B. The synthesis of DNA in the nucleus
• C. The formation of peptide bonds during translation
• D. The production of ATP in mitochondria

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of potassium in the body: Potassium is a key electrolyte that plays a critical role in maintaining the electrical potential across cell membranes, particularly in excitable cells like neurons.
2. Review the process of action potential generation: Action potentials are electrical signals used by neurons to communicate. They depend on the movement of ions, including potassium (K⁺), across the cell membrane through ion channels.
3. Analyze the connection between potassium and action potentials: During an action potential, potassium ions exit the neuron to help repolarize the membrane after depolarization. A deficiency in potassium disrupts this process, impairing the ability of neurons to generate action potentials.
4. Evaluate the other options: The synthesis of DNA, formation of peptide bonds, and production of ATP are not directly dependent on potassium levels. These processes rely on other factors such as enzymes, ribosomes, and mitochondrial function.
5. Conclude that the most likely effect of potassium deficiency is impaired generation of action potentials in neurons, as this process is directly dependent on potassium ion movement.