Question

Calculate the diffusive force (J) experienced by potassium in a cell where the concentration gradient is 35 mM, the membrane width is 1 cm, solubility of potassium across the membrane is 1 and the diffusive area (number of channels available) is 10. Assume that the cell is at 1 degree.

Answer 1

Diffusive force J = 9590

Step-by-step explanation:

From the given information:

Concentration gradient C₁ - C₂ = 35 mM = 35 × 10⁻³ M

membrane width Δ x = 1 cm = 10⁻² m

Solubility S = 1

diffusive area A = 10

Temperature T = 1° C = (273 + 1 )K = 274 K

Using the expression:

`\text {diffusive force J} = (C_1-C_2)/(\Delta x )* T * S * A`

`J = (35 * 10^(-3))/(10^(-2) )* 274 * 1 * 10`

`J = 3.5 * 274 * 1 * 10`

Diffusive force J = 9590