How is resting potential achieved?

Answer 1

The resting membrane potential difference between the inside and the outside of the cell is the result of selective permeability of the cell membrane and the active transport of ions into and out of the cell. Almost all cells have a potential difference, but some cells, neuron and heart muscle, also have voltage and chemically gated channels that allow for transient deviations from the resting potential.

Answer 2

The resting membrane potential is important because it maintains a 'ready state' for the cell to fire. Without the resting membrane potential there would be no driving force for ions like sodium to enter the cell; and if this doesn't happen then the cell wouldn't be able to depolarise and fire an action potential

Answer 3

The resting membrane potential is the voltage difference caused across the membrane due to the balancing of the electrochemical potentials across the cells. The chemical potential is caused by the difference in ions between the membranes, i.e. the passive movement down the concentration gradient. As a result of the movement of these ions, there will be an electrical difference caused, resulting in the further movements of ions into or out of the cell. These will eventually balance at what is known as the resting membrane potential. For a normal cell this is around -90mV, the negative sign indicating that there is a negative charge on the inside of the cell with respect to the outside. This resting membrane potential is extremely important in allowing for the neuron to function properly - hyperpolarization, where the membrane potential becomes more negative, can result in an inability to stimulate the muscle properly, and hypopolarization can result in hyper-excitability, leading to spasticity and over-excitement.

Usually we refer to there been an excess of Na+ ions outside the cell, and K+ ions inside the cell. The membrane potential tends to lie closer to the membrane potential of K+ due to the natural numbers of Na+ and K+ "leak" channels on the cell membrane.

Answer 4

The electrochemical gradient that is maintained by the neuron. Intracellular organic anions and potassium ions create the negative resting potential within the cell. And when permeability changes i.e. depolarization, Na channels open and cause more depolarization and thus more Na channels to open. Na is a more positive ion than K, but less permeable to the neuron and removed via the Na/K Pump which takes out 3 Na ions for every 2 K ions it brings in.

Answer 5

Resting potential is achieved when you relax and restore the ions. The region of the membrane should be re-polarized. To better understand this, one may talk to their doctor for advice.

Answer 6

Sodium and Potassium Pump