What substance is lost during prolonged exercise that causes a person to sweat heavily?Multiple Choiceelectrolyteswhite blood cellserythrocytesurea

Breakdown of the Problem

1. Identify what occurs in the body during prolonged exercise.
2. Understand what sweating entails and what is lost through sweat.

Relevant Concepts

1. During intense or prolonged exercise, the body regulates its temperature through sweating.
2. Sweat is composed primarily of water but also contains various dissolved substances.

Analysis and Detail

1. Components of Sweat:

   • Sweat mainly consists of water (approx. 99%).
   • It also contains electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, among other substances.

2. Impact of Exercise:

   • Upon prolonged exercise, the body loses significant amounts of these electrolytes, particularly sodium.

3. Options Analysis:

   • Electrolytes: Correct, as they are essential for muscle function and are lost in sweat.
   • White Blood Cells: Not related to sweating or lost in significant amounts during exercise.
   • Erythrocytes: These are red blood cells and are not lost through sweat.
   • Urea: This is a waste product and is excreted in urine, not sweat.

Verify and Summarize

The main substance lost during prolonged exercise that leads to heavy sweating is electrolytes, particularly sodium. This loss can affect hydration and muscle function.

Final Answer

The substance lost during prolonged exercise that causes a person to sweat heavily is electrolytes.