Question

2.11 unit test: the chemistry of life mid - unit - part 1
due: fri oct 24, 2025 11:59pm
45 points possible
attempt 1
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which statement best explains why electrical signals in the body are often based on ions?
○ ions contain a single atom.
○ ionic bonds are very strong
○ ions can gain electrons.
○ ions are charged particles.

Explanation:

Electrical signals require charged particles. Ions are charged (either positive or negative). A single - atom (if uncharged, like a neutral atom) won't carry an electrical signal. Strong ionic bonds (relevant for structure in some compounds) don't directly relate to electrical signaling. The ability to gain electrons (a property of some atoms/ions) is not the key for electrical signaling. The charge on ions is what allows them to be part of electrical signal transmission (e.g., in nerve cells, movement of ions like \(Na^{+}\) and \(K^{+}\) creates electrical gradients).

Answer:

lons are charged particles.