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Depolarization of a cell membrane occurs because

Question

Depolarization of a cell membrane occurs because

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Solution

Depolarization of a cell membrane occurs due to the following steps:

  1. At resting potential, the inside of the neuron is negatively charged compared to the outside. This is due to the distribution of ions, with more sodium ions (Na+) outside the cell and more potassium ions (K+) inside the cell.

  2. When a stimulus is received, voltage-gated sodium channels open. This allows Na+ to rush into the cell, following its concentration gradient.

  3. The influx of positive Na+ ions makes the inside of the cell more positive, reducing the difference in charge between the inside and outside of the cell. This is the process of depolarization.

  4. If the depolarization reaches a certain threshold, it triggers an action potential. This is an electrical signal that travels down the neuron, leading to the release of neurotransmitters.

  5. After the action potential, the cell repolarizes. The sodium channels close and potassium channels open, allowing K+ to leave the cell. This restores the negative charge inside the cell, returning it to its resting state.

  6. The sodium-potassium pump then actively transports Na+ and K+ ions against their concentration gradients to maintain the resting potential. This requires energy in the form of ATP.

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Similar Questions

Depolarization of the cell membrane occurs when there is a rapid influx (inflow) ofMultiple Choicecalcium ions.amino acids.sodium ions.potassium ions.chloride ions.

Depolarization of a cell membrane occurs becauseMultiple ChoiceSodium ions are blocked from entering the cellMore sodium ions diffuse into the cell than potassium ions diffuse out of itThe concentration of sodium and potassium ions in the extracellular fluid is at equilibriumThe concentration of sodium and potassium ions in the cell is at equilibrium

What is produced when depolarization of a cell membrane reaches threshold?Multiple ChoiceA new action potential is produced.An existing action potential is stopped.Voltage-gated ion channels close.The absolute refractory period ends.

Depolarization occurs becauseMultiple Choicethe extra efflux of potassium ions causes the membrane potential to become slightly more positive than the resting value.more sodium ions diffuse into the cell than potassium ions diffuse out of it.the inactivation gates of the voltage-gated sodium ion channels begin to open, and the diffusion of sodium ions decreases.potassium ions continue to diffuse out of the cell after the inactivation gates of the voltage-gated sodium ion channels begin to close.the increased potassium ion permeability lasts slightly longer than the time required to bring the membrane potential back to its resting level.

Depolarization is initiated by a stimulus that makes the membrane potentialMultiple ChoiceUnchangedNeutralMore positiveMore negative

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