NROSCI 0081 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Resting Potential, Electrochemical Gradient, Membrane Potential
Document Summary
Neurons are electrically active: store energy in the form of an electrochemical gradient. Differential permeability of the membrane some things go across; diffusion is not happening for some reason; require ion channels to cross the membrane. Na+/k+ pump special channel that keeps an imbalance by actively moving ions against their gradient. Needs atp to work (energy dependent); maintains resting membrane potential; pumps 3 na+ out and 2 k+ in higher concentration of na+ outside the cell: selective permeability: allowing some chemicals/ions to pass more freely than others. Forces against the electrochemical gradient: homogenizing forces: forces promoting equal distribution of ions across the membrane. Chemical separate as far away from each other as possible. A buildup of charged chemicals can lead to an electrical force: opposing forces: forces that promote unequal distribution. Resting membrane potential and neuronal signaling: electrochemical gradient creates the resting membrane potential. This is necessary for neurons to be able to send the electrical signal down the axon.
