Question

Why are ICF & ECF in electrical disequilibrium?

a. Due to differences in ion concentrations between the intracellular and extracellular fluid
b. Due to the presence of charged proteins only in the intracellular fluid
c. Due to selective permeability of the cell membrane
d. Due to the absence of charged ions in the extracellular fluid

Answer 1

ICF and ECF are in electrical disequilibrium due to differing ion concentrations, selective permeability of the cell membrane, and charged proteins within cells. The correct option is c. Due to the selective permeability of the cell membrane

Step-by-step explanation:

The ICF (Intracellular Fluid) and ECF (Extracellular Fluid) are in electrical disequilibrium primarily due to differences in ion concentrations between them. Specifically, the ICF has higher concentrations of potassium ions (K+), while the ECF has higher concentrations of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions. The selective permeability of the cell membrane and the presence of charged proteins that do not move across the membrane also contribute to maintaining this disequilibrium.

The sodium-potassium pumps in cell membranes use ATP to actively transport sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell, which maintains the ion gradient and electrical disequilibrium necessary for cellular functions like electrical signaling. The correct option is c. Due to the selective permeability of the cell membrane