Nervous System I: Membrane Potentials

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the electrophysiology of the nervous system, specifically focusing on membrane potentials and graded potentials.

Resting Membrane Potential (RMP)

The voltage at which the inside of the cell is -70mV compared to the outside, indicating a charge difference.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A membrane transport mechanism that maintains the unequal concentration gradients of sodium and potassium ions across the membrane.

Graded Potentials

Local changes in membrane potential that occur due to a stimulus opening or closing gated ion channels.

Depolarization

A process where the membrane potential becomes less negative than at rest.

Hyperpolarization

A process where the membrane potential becomes more negative than at rest.

Equilibrium Potential for K+ (EK+)

The membrane potential at which K+ flux due to concentration gradient and electrical gradient become equal and opposite, typically -90mV.

Leak Channels

Membrane proteins that allow ions to move into and out of cells passively.

Electrical Gradient

A difference in charge that causes ions to move towards areas of opposite charge.

Concentration Gradient

The difference in concentration of ions across a membrane that drives ion movement.

Excitable Membranes

Nerve and muscle cells that can change their membrane potential in response to stimuli.