Which two major minerals are important electrolytes for nerve function?

• A. Sulfur & Potassium.
• B. Sodium & Sulfur.
• C. Potassium & Sodium.
• D. Sulfur & Phosphorus.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of electrolytes. Electrolytes are minerals that carry an electrical charge and are essential for various physiological functions, including nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and fluid balance.
2. Step 2: Learn about the role of major minerals in nerve function. Sodium (Na⁺) and Potassium (K⁺) are two key electrolytes that help maintain the electrical gradient across nerve cell membranes, which is crucial for transmitting nerve impulses.
3. Step 3: Explore the sodium-potassium pump mechanism. This pump actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, creating an electrochemical gradient necessary for nerve impulse transmission.
4. Step 4: Review why sulfur and phosphorus are not considered primary electrolytes for nerve function. While these minerals have important roles in the body, they do not directly contribute to the electrical signaling required for nerve function like sodium and potassium do.
5. Step 5: Confirm the correct answer based on the physiological roles of the minerals. Potassium and Sodium are the two major minerals that act as electrolytes essential for nerve function.