Asked by Connie Barretto on Jul 12, 2024
Verified
When voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels open during an action potential, in which direction do the ions flow?
A) Both sodium and potassium flow from the interstitial fluid into the cytoplasm.
B) Both sodium and potassium flow from the cytoplasm to the interstitial fluid.
C) Sodium flows from the cytoplasm to the interstitial fluid and potassium flows in the opposite direction.
D) Sodium flows from the interstitial fluid to the cytoplasm and potassium flows in the opposite direction.
E) Potassium flows from the interstitial fluid to the cytoplasm and sodium flows in the opposite direction.
Voltage-Gated
Referring to ion channels that open or close in response to changes in electrical membrane potential.
Sodium
Sodium is a chemical element with the symbol Na and atomic number 11, a soft, silvery-white, highly reactive metal.
Potassium
A chemical element with symbol K, vital for plant growth and important in nerve function in animals.
- Understand the process of an action potential.
Verified Answer
EA
Emanuel Allstar'Jul 14, 2024
Final Answer :
D
Explanation :
During an action potential, voltage-gated sodium channels open first, allowing sodium ions to flow from the interstitial fluid into the cytoplasm. This depolarizes the cell and triggers the opening of voltage-gated potassium channels. Potassium ions then flow out of the cytoplasm into the interstitial fluid, repolarizing the cell. Therefore, sodium flows from the interstitial fluid to the cytoplasm and potassium flows in the opposite direction.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the process of an action potential.