Resting Membrane Potential

Question 1

What is membrane potential?

Answer 1

It’s the separation of opposite charge that exists across the cell membrane. It creates an electrical force of attraction which is known as potential.
ICF is more harmful than ECF

Question 2

Concept of potential

Answer 2

• Determination of membrane potential by unequal distribution of positive and negative charges across the membrane

Question 3

Resting membrane potential (RMP)

Answer 3

A separation of charge that exist across the membrane due to an unequal distribution of key ions between the ICF and ECF
Na+/k+/ATPase pumps 3na+ out the cell and 2k+ in the cell.
Typical RMP value is -70mV

Question 4

Equilibrium potential for k+

Answer 4

K+ moves out of the cell down its concentration gradient, making the inside increasingly negative, creating a negative membrane potential. K+ is attracted to the charged interior and moves back into the cell . There is a dynamic equilibirum and this occurs at a membrane potential of -90mv

Question 5

Equilibrium potential for NA+

Answer 5

Na+ moves into the cell down its concentration gradient, making the inside increasingly positive and creating a positive membrane potential. Na+ is attracted to the charged exterior and it moves out the cell. Dynamic equilibrium occurs. Occurs at +60mv