Final answer:
The ICF and ECF are in chemical disequilibrium because they contain different concentrations of ions; the ECF is rich in Na+ and Cl- whereas the ICF has more K+ and HPO4^(2-). These differences are maintained by sodium-potassium pumps that use ATP to move ions across cell membranes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chemical Disequilibrium in ICF and ECF
The Intracellular Fluid (ICF) and Extracellular Fluid (ECF) are in a state of chemical disequilibrium due to the different concentrations of ions and proteins present within these compartments. The ECF, which includes the interstitial fluid (IF) and blood plasma, generally contains high concentrations of sodium (Na+), chloride (Cl-), and bicarbonate (HCO3-), but low concentrations of potassium (K+) in comparison to the ICF.
The ICF, existing within cells, has elevated amounts of potassium (K+), phosphate (HPO42-), magnesium (Mg2+), and proteins, contributing to the stark contrast with the ECF. This disequilibrium is maintained by the sodium-potassium pumps which actively transport Na+ out of the cell and K+ into the cell, utilizing ATP as an energy source. The maintenance of this chemical disequilibrium is essential for various cellular functions, including nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction.