Fundamentals of Charged Particles and Membrane Potential

These flashcards cover key concepts related to charged particles, membrane potentials, and neuronal signaling based on the lecture notes.

Charged Particles

Particles that possess an electric charge, such as protons (positive) and electrons (negative).

Sodium Ion

A common positively charged ion that loses one electron to achieve stability.

Potassium Ion

Another common positively charged ion, typically found in higher concentrations inside cells.

Chloride Ion

A negatively charged ion that gains one electron for stability.

Resting Membrane Potential

The electrical potential difference across a cell membrane in a non-active state, usually around -70mV.

Action Potential

A brief change in membrane potential that propagates along a neuron, leading to signal transmission.

Depolarization

The phase of an action potential where the membrane potential becomes less negative (more positive) due to Na+ influx.

Repolarization

The phase following depolarization where the membrane potential returns to a more negative value due to K+ efflux.

Active Transport

The movement of ions against a concentration gradient, requiring energy, often via pumps like the sodium-potassium pump.

Concentration Gradient

The difference in concentration of a substance between two areas, influencing the movement of particles.

Chemically Gated Channels

Ion channels that open in response to specific chemical signals, allowing ions to flow in or out of the cell.

Voltage Gated Channels

Channels that open or close in response to changes in membrane potential, vital for action potentials.

Sodium-Potassium Pump

A membrane-bound protein that actively transports Na+ out of and K+ into the cell, crucial for maintaining resting membrane potential.

Hypokalemia

A condition of low potassium levels in the blood, which can disrupt normal cellular function.

Nervous System Function

The system involving neurons and membrane potentials crucial for communication and response in the body.