Question

Explain the conditions that give rise to the resting membrane potential. What effect does membrane permeability have on this potential? What role do Na+/K+-ATPase membrane pumps play in the membrane potential? Are these functions direct or indirect?

Answer 1

The resting membrane potential is established by ion distribution across the cell membrane. Membrane permeability to Na+ and K+ affects this potential. Na+/K+-ATPase pumps play a direct role in maintaining the membrane potential.

Step-by-step explanation:

The resting membrane potential is established by the distribution of ions across the cell membrane. This potential is maintained by ion leakage channels, which allow Na+ to move into the cell and K+ to move out. The Na+/K+-ATPase membrane pumps play a critical role in maintaining the membrane potential by actively transporting Na+ out of the cell and K+ into the cell. These functions are direct, as the pumps directly move ions across the membrane.

Answer 2

The resting membrane potential is established by the distribution of ions across the cell membrane. Leakage channels and membrane permeability have a direct effect on the resting membrane potential. Na+/K+-ATPase membrane pumps play a direct role in maintaining the membrane potential.

Step-by-step explanation:

The resting membrane potential is established by the distribution of ions across the cell membrane. leakage channels, which allow Na+ to slowly move into the cell or K+ to slowly move out, play a role in maintaining the membrane potential. Membrane permeability refers to how easily ions can pass through the cell membrane, and it directly affects the resting membrane potential. If the membrane is more permeable to Na+, the resting membrane potential will be closer to the equilibrium potential for Na+, which is around +60 mV. If the membrane is more permeable to K+, the resting membrane potential will be closer to the equilibrium potential for K+, which is around -90 mV.

Na+/K+-ATPase membrane pumps, also known as sodium-potassium pumps, play a crucial role in maintaining the resting membrane potential. These pumps actively transport three Na+ ions out of the cell and two K+ ions into the cell for every ATP molecule hydrolyzed. This helps to establish and maintain the concentration gradients of Na+ and K+ across the cell membrane. The functions of Na+/K+-ATPase membrane pumps are direct because they actively transport ions across the membrane to maintain the resting membrane potential.