Question

Children have about 1016 synapses that can transfer signals between neurons in the brain and between neurons and muscle cells. Suppose that these synapses simultaneously transmit a signal, sending 1000 calcium ions (Ca2+) across the membrane at each synaptic ending. Determine the total electric charge transfer in coulombs during that short time interval. By comparison, a lightning flash involves about 5C of charge transfer. (Note: This is a fictional scenario. All human neurons do not simultaneously produce signals.) e=1.6×10−19C.

Answer 1

3.2 C

Step-by-step explanation:

e = Charge of electron =
`1.6* 10^(-19)\ C`

Number of synapses =
`10^(16)`

Signals transferred by each synapse 1000 calcium ions
`Ca^(2+)`

Each calcium ion carries 2 charges

Number of charges would be
`2* 1000=2000`

Total charges would be

`N=10^(16)* 2000=2* 10^(19)`

Charge is given by

`Q=Ne\\\Rightarrow Q=2* 10^(19)* 1.6* 10^(-19)\\\Rightarrow Q=3.2\ C`

The total electric charge transfer in coulombs during that short time interval is 3.2 C