The normal concentrations for intracellular and extracellular potassium in a neuron are [K+]in = 150 mM and [K+]out = 5 mM, respectively. Due to an electrolyte imbalance, a patient has the following intracellular and extracellular concentrations of potassium: [K+]in = 140 mM and [K+]out =2 mM. Using the Nernst equation (Chapter 4), calculate the equilibrium potential for potassium in the cells with normal K+ distributions and of the diseased patient. Refer back to Question #1. Will it be easier or more difficult to generate an action potential in the diseased neuron as compared to the normal neuron? Why?

Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems (MindTap Course List)
9th Edition
ISBN:9781285866932
Author:Lauralee Sherwood
Publisher:Lauralee Sherwood
Chapter4: Principles Of Neural And Hormonal Communication
Section: Chapter Questions
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The normal concentrations for intracellular and extracellular potassium in a neuron
are [K+]in = 150 mM and [K+]out = 5 mM, respectively. Due to an electrolyte
imbalance, a patient has the following intracellular and extracellular concentrations
of potassium: [K+]in = 140 mM and [K+]out =2 mM. Using the Nernst equation
(Chapter 4), calculate the equilibrium potential for potassium in the cells with
normal K+ distributions and of the diseased patient.
Refer back to Question #1. Will it be easier or more difficult to generate an action
potential in the diseased neuron as compared to the normal neuron? Why?
Transcribed Image Text:The normal concentrations for intracellular and extracellular potassium in a neuron are [K+]in = 150 mM and [K+]out = 5 mM, respectively. Due to an electrolyte imbalance, a patient has the following intracellular and extracellular concentrations of potassium: [K+]in = 140 mM and [K+]out =2 mM. Using the Nernst equation (Chapter 4), calculate the equilibrium potential for potassium in the cells with normal K+ distributions and of the diseased patient. Refer back to Question #1. Will it be easier or more difficult to generate an action potential in the diseased neuron as compared to the normal neuron? Why?
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