Resting Potential: The difference in charge across the neuronal membrane when it is not firing. Inside is more negative relative to the outside (~70 mV).
Membrane Potential: A charge difference created by the unequal distribution of ions across the neuron's membrane.
Sodium-Potassium Pump:
A transmembrane protein that maintains resting potential.
Actively exchanges ions to create and maintain an electrochemical gradient.
Expels 3 Na+ ions for every 2 K+ ions it admits.
Active process requiring ATP for ion exchange.
Ion Distribution:
More positively charged ions outside and more negatively charged ions inside the neuron.
Understanding
Neurons pump sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) ions across their membranes to generate electrical signals.
The sodium-potassium pump creates an electrochemical gradient, making the cell interior relatively negative.
Ion exchange is energy-dependent, relying on ATP hydrolysis.
Some K+ ions leak back out after being transported inside.
Visual Aid
Includes an image illustrating the generation of a resting potential.
Notes
The concept of resting potential is crucial for understanding how neurons transmit signals. It involves active maintenance of ion gradients using energy.
The resting potential is essential for the readiness of neurons to fire and propagate electrical signals.
Navigation
Links to related topics such as neurons, synapses, action potentials, and nerve impulses, with visual aids provided throughout the page.