Overview
Membrane potential is a fundamental concept in biology, representing the electrical charge difference across a cell's membrane. It is crucial for the functioning of neurons and muscle cells, enabling communication and contraction. The resting membrane potential prepares cells for action potentials, ...
Key Terms
Example: Neurons have a membrane potential that allows them to transmit signals.
Example: A typical resting potential for neurons is around -70 mV.
Example: An action potential occurs when a neuron fires.
Example: Sodium channels open during an action potential.
Example: E(K) = (RT/zF) * ln([K+]outside/[K+]inside).
Example: During an action potential, depolarization occurs.
Related Topics
Neurotransmission
The process by which signaling molecules are released by neurons to communicate with other cells.
intermediateMuscle Physiology
The study of how muscles function, including the role of membrane potential in muscle contraction.
intermediateElectrophysiology
The study of electrical properties of biological cells and tissues, including membrane potentials.
advancedKey Concepts
Resting potentialAction potentialIon channelsNernst equation