Chapter 9.4, Problem 21AYP

Summary Introduction

To analyze:

The role of the sodium-potassium pump in maintaining the polarized nature of the resting membrane.

Introduction:

The negativity of the inner portion of the plasma membrane as compared to the outside of the plasma membrane gives rise to the polarized nature of the electrically excitable cells. This charge difference along the plasma membrane of an unstimulated cell is known as the resting membrane potential. The sodium-potassium pump is usually found in the plasma membrane of the cells. This pump helps in the movement of sodium and potassium ions in different directions.