Chapter 8, Problem 13RQ

Choose from the following ions to fill in the blanks correctly: Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Cl⁻

1. (a) The resting cell membrane is more permeable to _____ than to _____. Although _____ contribute little to the resting membrane potential, they play a key role in generating electrical signals in excitable tissues.
2. (b) The concentration of _____ is 12 times greater outside the cell than inside.
3. (c) The concentration of _____ is 30 times greater inside the cell than outside.
4. (d) An action potential occurs when _____ enter the cell.
5. (e) The resting membrane potential is due to the high _____ permeability of the cell.