Electrical Signals of Nerve Cells - Forces that generate membrane potentials

5 important questions on Electrical Signals of Nerve Cells - Forces that generate membrane potentials

How can the equilibrium potential be predicted?

By a formula called the Nernst equation.
Ex = (RT/zF) ln([X]out/[X]in)

What do all the symbols in the Nernst equation mean?

  • Ex is the equilibrium potential for any ion X.
  • R is the gas constant.
  • T is the absolute temperature (in Kelvin).
  • z is the valence (= electrical charge) of the permeant ion,
  • F is the Faraday constant (= amount of electrical charge contained in one mole of a univalent ion).
  • X is ion 'in'side and 'out'side.

How is the Nernst equation usually simplified to?

To using base 10 logarithms and using room temperature.
Ex = (58 / z) log ([X]out / [X]in)
  • Higher grades + faster learning
  • Never study anything twice
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Discover Study Smart

What happens if the membrane potential is plotted against the logarithm of the X concentration gradient?

The Nernst equation predicts a linear relationship.

What does the balance of chemical and electrical forces at equilibrium means?

The electrical potential can determine ion fluxes across the membrane (just as the ion gradient can determine the membrane potential).

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo