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Which ion would have the fastest flux rate in a resting neuron (Vm = -65 mV)?

Ion 2: E2 = -100 mV; 50 channels open
Ion 1: E1 = -50 mV; 100 channels open
Ion 3: E3 = +50 mV; 100 channels open
Ion 5: E5 = +50 mV; 10 channels open
Ion 4: E4 = -50 mV; 50 channels open

User ASGM
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

In a resting neuron with a membrane potential (Vm) of -65 mV, the ion with the fastest flux rate would be the one with the largest difference between its equilibrium potential (E) and the resting membrane potential. Ion 3 (E3 = +50 mV) would have the highest flux rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a resting neuron with a membrane potential (Vm) of -65 mV, the ion with the fastest flux rate would be the one with the largest difference between its equilibrium potential (E) and the resting membrane potential. Looking at the options given, Ion 3 (E3 = +50 mV) would have the highest flux rate. This is because the membrane potential is closer to the equilibrium potential of Ion 3 compared to the other ions. Additionally, the number of channels open does not affect the flux rate as long as there is at least one open channel for each ion.

User Dsegleau
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