MCQ Detailed View

Sweating is a natural process that helps the human body regulate temperature and remove certain waste products. Sweat is mostly made up of water, but it also contains dissolved salts and small amounts of other substances. The most common mineral salt found in sweat is sodium chloride (NaCl), which is the same compound that makes up table salt.

When the body heats up due to exercise, high temperature, or stress, sweat glands produce sweat to cool the skin through evaporation. Sodium chloride is released along with water because the body maintains fluid balance by excreting salts. Sodium and chloride ions are essential electrolytes that help in nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining fluid balance, but some of it is lost through sweating.

Let's review the given options:

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  Calcium Oxalate: This compound is found in kidney stones, not in sweat.

  
  


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  Potassium Sulphate: Potassium is present in trace amounts in sweat, but not as potassium sulphate, and it is not the main salt.

  
  


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  Sodium Chloride: The major salt in sweat, giving it a salty taste.

  
  


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  Iron Sulphate: Not a normal component of sweat; iron is primarily stored in blood and tissues.

  
  

The salty taste of sweat comes directly from sodium chloride. When a person sweats a lot, especially during intense physical activity, they may lose significant amounts of sodium, which is why electrolyte replacement drinks are sometimes recommended for athletes to prevent dehydration and muscle cramps.

In summary, the main mineral salt present in human sweat is sodium chloride, making Option 3 the correct answer. This basic knowledge is important for understanding body fluid balance, nutrition, and human physiology.