Membrane potential

Question 1

What is excitable tissue?

Answer 1

They can change the electrical properties of their resting cell membranes and respond to a stimulus by producing action potentials (muscle and nerves)

Question 2

What is resting membrane potential?

Answer 2

It is the difference in potential between the outer surface and the inner surface of the membrane of excitable cells under resting condition. The inside of the membrane is negatively charged with respect to the outside (-70 mv)

Question 3

Describe the shift from resting potential to action potential in response to a stimulus.

Answer 3

(Answer in yellow box - note the charges inside and outside the cell for resting and action potential)

Question 4

What is the function of a neuron?

Answer 4

Receive signals. Integrate incoming signals (to determine whether or not the information should be passed along). Communicate signals to target cells (other neurons or muscles or glands).

Question 5

How does the structure of a neuron contribute to its function?

Answer 5

Question 6

What are the phases of an action potential?

Answer 6

Depolarization (less negative [-50] or even positive [+20])
Polarized state = (RMP= [-70 mv])
Hyperpolarization (more negative [-90])