Question

What are two chemical that are instrumental in generating the electrical polarity of a nerve?

Answer 1

Sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions are crucial in generating the electrical polarity of a nerve, creating the membrane potential necessary for nerve impulse transmission.

Step-by-step explanation:

The two chemicals that are instrumental in generating the electrical polarity of a nerve are sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions. These ions maintain different concentrations inside and outside the nerve cell, which creates an electrochemical gradient across the neuronal membrane. The difference in concentration of these ions is crucial for the development of the membrane potential, which is approximately -70 mV in a resting nerve cell. During the action potential, sodium ion channels open, allowing Na+ ions to rush into the cell, which reverses the charge inside and initiates an electric current along the axon.

The altered distribution of these positively charged ions changes the membrane potential from negative to positive, creating the conditions necessary for nerve impulse transmission. This process is also called depolarization, which is swiftly followed by repolarization, resetting the membrane potential back to its resting state.

Answer 2

Sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions are crucial for creating electrical polarity in neurons by establishing the resting membrane potential and enabling action potentials.

Step-by-step explanation:

Two chemicals that are instrumental in generating the electrical polarity of a nerve are sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions. These ions play critical roles in establishing a neuron's resting membrane potential and in propagating action potentials. At rest, there is a higher concentration of Na+ outside the neuron and a higher concentration of K+ inside. When a neuron is stimulated, Na+ channels open, allowing Na+ ions to rush into the cell, which creates a positive membrane potential and propagates the nerve signal. This is termed the action potential. The alternating flow of these ions across the neuron's membrane sets the foundation for the electrical signaling in nerve cells.