11.1 - Neuron Function and Synapse Flashcards
1
Q
What’s a membrane potential?
A
The difference in charge between the inside of the axon and the outside of the axon.
- The potential is measured from inside
2
Q
Resting Membrane Potential?
A
When the nerve cell is not transmitting a signal.
3
Q
Resting Membrane Potential Voltage?
A
-70mV,
- 70mV more negative on the inside the axon than the outside.
4
Q
How is the Resting Membrane Potential Maintained?
A
Sodium-potassium pumps keep the sodium ions out and potassium ions inside.
5
Q
Polarization
A
Process of generating a resting membrane potential of -70mv.
- Charged neuron, ready to send message.
6
Q
How do neurons become polarized?
A
Different things:
- Large protein molecules are present inside the cell, and they’re negatively charged. They can’t pass.
- Cell membrane is nearly impermeable to small negatively charged ions, such as chloride ions. So, chloride ions in the cell contribute to a negative charge.
- sodium-potassium exchange pump: It uses ATP to transport sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell.
7
Q
Sodium-Potassium Exchange Pump Currency
A
It exchanges three sodium ions for two potassium ions.
8
Q
What happens as a result of the SP Pump?
A
A disequilibrium is established, there’s more positive charge outside and a slightly negative charge inside.
9
Q
Leaky K+ channels
A
10
Q
Action potential
A
