Chapter 48.2

Question 1

Membrane Potential

Answer 1

• Every cell has a voltage (difference in electrical charge) across its plasma membrane called a membrane potential

Question 2

Resting Potential

Answer 2

• The resting potential is the membrane potential of a neuron not sending signals

Question 3

Ion Channels

Answer 3

• The opening of ion channels in the plasma membrane converts chemical potential to electrical potential

Question 4

Equillibrium Potential

Answer 4

• The equilibrium potential (E_ion) is the membrane voltage for a particular ion at equilibrium and can be calculated using the Nernst equation

E_ion = 62 mV (log[ion]_outside/[ion]_Inside)

(do not have to remember equation)