Chapter 3.6, Problem 3CYU

Summary Introduction

To write:

The difference between steady-state and dynamic equilibrium.

Introduction:

At resting potential, neither potassium ions nor sodium ions are at equilibrium. A potential for -70 millivolts does not precisely counterpoise the concentration gradient for potassium ions, it takes a potential of -90 millivolts to attain that. Therefore, potassium ions gradually persist to exit passively via its leak channels down this small concentration gradient.

In the case of sodium ions, the electrical and the concentration gradients do not even contrast each other, they both encourage the inward transportation of sodium ions. Thus, sodium ions leak spontaneously down its electrochemical gradient; however, only gradually, due to its low permeability, that is, due to the low concentration of sodium ions leak channels.