Membrane Physiology Flashcards
1
Q
What is the chemical gradient?
A
Concentration gradient of ions
2
Q
What is the membrane potential?
A
Electrical gradient of ions
3
Q
What are the chemical gradient and membrane potential collectively known as?
A
Electrochemical gradient
4
Q
What is the resting membrane potential of nerve cells?
A
Between -65mV and -70mV
5
Q
What is the defining characteristic of electrically-excitable tissue?
A
They can momentarily discharge the standing electrical potential
6
Q
Factors determining if a particle can cross a selectively permeable membrane
A
- Size
- Electrical charge
- Water solubility
- Whether particle is recognised by specialised transport systems
7
Q
Types of ion channels
A
- Selective
- Non-selective
8
Q
What is the role of ion pumps (transport ATPases) regarding the resting potential?
A
Maintain it (NOT set up)
