Chapter 11.3, Problem 2QC

Summary Introduction

To review:

The distribution of sodium and potassium ions across the plasma membrane, and the reason for this distribution.

Introduction:

The two ions—sodium and potassium—are distributed across the two sides of the plasma membrane in an unequal manner. This creates an electrochemical gradient, which is required to generate and propagate action potential in electrically excitable cells, such as muscle fibers.