Question

If the equilibrium potential for K⁺ is -58 mV and +58 mV for Na⁺, which is true the ions at a membrane potential of -58mV? (assume that the membrane is permeable to both ions)

A) Na⁺ should diffuse into the cell
B) K⁺ should diffuse out of the cell
C) K⁺ should diffuse into the cell
D) Na⁺ should diffuse out of the cell

Answer 1

At a membrane potential of -58mV, K⁺ ions should diffuse into the cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

At a membrane potential of -58mV, the ion that would diffuse into the cell is K⁺. This is because the equilibrium potential for K⁺ is also -58mV, meaning that at this membrane potential, the concentration gradient for K⁺ would favor its movement into the cell.