membrane potential
the voltage difference across a membrane
The membrane potential refers to a difference in electric charge between the interior and exterior of a cell membrane. It is maintained by the uneven distribution of ions (charged particles) on both sides of the membrane, with more positively charged ions (such as sodium or potassium) outside the membrane and more negatively charged ions (such as chloride or phosphate) inside the membrane. This creates a separation of charge, or potential difference, across the membrane.
The membrane potential is important for many cellular processes, including the transmission of nerve impulses and the movement of molecules in and out of the cell. It can be altered by various stimuli, such as changes in ion concentrations or the binding of neurotransmitters to receptors on the membrane surface. When the membrane potential reaches a certain threshold, it can trigger an action potential, which is a rapid change in membrane potential that propagates along the length of nerve cells.
Overall, the membrane potential is a critical aspect of cellular physiology that plays a key role in controlling the flow of ions and regulating cellular processes.
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