Question

Nerve cells have special ion channels called voltage gated channels. These channels open in response to changes in the charge across the membrane. The normal resting membrane potential for the cell is about -70 milliVolts(mV). If this potential difference is reduced (becomes less negative), voltage gated Na+ channels open. Which direction will Na+ move across the membrane and what will this do to the concentration and charge difference across the membrane?

Answer 1

When voltage gated Na+ channels open and the membrane potential becomes less negative, Na+ ions move into the cell, causing depolarization and a decrease in the charge difference across the membrane.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the voltage gated Na+ channels open and the membrane potential becomes less negative, Na+ ions will move across the membrane into the cell. This movement of positive ions into the cell will depolarize the membrane potential, bringing it closer to zero. The concentration of Na+ ions will increase inside the cell, while the charge difference across the membrane will decrease.