Mineral salt that carries an electrical charge when in solution.

• A. Ileum
• B. Pernicious anemia
• C. Duodenum
• D. Electrolyte

Answer: (D)

An electrolyte is a mineral salt that dissociates into charged particles, or ions, when dissolved in solution. Those free-moving ions conduct electricity, which is essential for many bodily processes like nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction, as well as maintaining fluid and acid-base balance. That definition fits the description given in the question perfectly. The other terms refer to parts of the digestive system or a medical condition and do not describe a substance that conducts electricity in solution.