Random Bio Definitions Flashcards
Definition of polarised.
A change in potential difference.
Definition of resting potential.
The potential difference across a cell membrane when it’s resting.
Definition of millivolt.
Unit of measurement for potential difference.
Definition of active transport.
Diffusion against concentration gradient that requires energy.
What is a sodium-potassium pump?
It’s a co-transporter protein for sodium ions (going out) and potassium (going in).
What is a potassium ion channel?
It’s a channel protein that transports potassium ions.
Definition of facilitated diffusion.
Diffusion across a membrane with the use of proteins.
Definition of ion.
A molecule that’s charged.
Definition of an electrochemical gradient.
It’s the concentration of ions.
Definition of permeable.
The ability for molecules to move across a membrane.
What is a “voltage-gated” channel protein?
A channel protein which only open/function when they are hit with a certain voltage.
Definition of a threshold.
The potential needed for a response/movement>
Definition of an action potential.
The rapid change in potential.
Definition of a stimulus.
The change in an organism’s environment.
Definition of depolarisation.
The decrease in potential difference across a membrane.
Definition of repolarisation.
The return of a cell membrane to its resting potential.
Definition of hyperpolarisation.
The increase in potential difference across a cell’s membrane.
Definition of phosphorylation.
The attaching of an inorganic phosphate group to a molecule.
What is ATP hydrolase?
The enzyme which aids with hydrolysis.
