Question

Which of the following statements correctly describe(s) the driving forces for diffusion of Na+ and K+ ions through their respective channels? Select all that apply. Which of the following statements correctly describe(s) the driving forces for diffusion of Na+ and K+ ions through their respective channels? Select all that apply. The diffusion of Na+ ions into the cell is facilitated by the Na+ concentration gradient across the plasma membrane. The diffusion of Na+ ions into the cell is impeded by the electrical gradient across the plasma membrane. The diffusion of K+ ions out of the cell is impeded by the K+ concentration gradient across the plasma membrane. The diffusion of K+ ions out of the cell is impeded by the electrical gradient across the plasma membrane. The electrochemical gradient is larger for Na+ than for K+.

Answer 1

The negative charge is high inside the cell and positive charge is high outside the cell. The concentration of sodium is more outside and less inside. In contrast, the concentration of potassium is less outside and more inside.

The following statements correctly describe the driving forces for diffusion of \(\mathrm{Na}+\) and \(\mathrm{K}+\) ions through their respective channels:

- The diffusion of \(\mathrm{Na}+\) ions into the cell is facilitated by the \(\mathrm{Na}+\) concentration gradient across the plasma membrane.

- The diffusion of \(\mathrm{K}+\) ions out of the cell is impeded by the electrical gradient across the plasma membrane.

- The electrochemical gradient is larger for \(\mathrm{Na}+\) than for \(\mathrm{K}+\).