Table of contents

1. Overview of Cell Biology2h 49m
2. Chemical Components of Cells1h 14m
3. Energy1h 33m
4. DNA, Chromosomes, and Genomes2h 31m
5. DNA to RNA to Protein2h 31m
6. Proteins1h 36m
7. Gene Expression1h 42m
8. Membrane Structure1h 4m
- The Lipid Bilayer
  38m
- Membrane Proteins
  25m
9. Transport Across Membranes1h 52m
10. Anerobic Respiration1h 5m
11. Aerobic Respiration1h 11m
12. Photosynthesis52m
13. Intracellular Protein Transport2h 18m
14. Cell Signaling1h 28m
15. Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement1h 39m
16. Cell Division3h 5m
17. Meiosis and Sexual Reproduction50m
18. Cell Junctions and Tissues48m
19. Stem Cells13m
- Stem Cells
  13m
20. Cancer44m
21. The Immune System1h 6m
22. Techniques in Cell Biology1h 41m

9. Transport Across Membranes

Ion Channels and Membrane Potential

Cell Biology

9. Transport Across Membranes

Ion Channels and Membrane Potential

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following best explains how ion gradients across the membrane contribute to cellular functions?

They serve as structural components of the cytoskeleton.

They create membrane potentials that are essential for processes like nerve impulse transmission.

They directly synthesize proteins by providing amino acids.

They break down ATP to release energy for the cell.

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the role of ion gradients: Ion gradients are differences in ion concentration across a membrane, typically maintained by active transport mechanisms such as ion pumps (e.g., the sodium-potassium pump). These gradients are crucial for various cellular processes.

Recognize the connection to membrane potential: Ion gradients create an electrical charge difference across the membrane, known as the membrane potential. This is essential for processes like nerve impulse transmission, where changes in membrane potential propagate signals along neurons.

Eliminate incorrect options: Ion gradients are not structural components of the cytoskeleton, so this option is incorrect. Similarly, they do not directly synthesize proteins or provide amino acids, nor do they break down ATP to release energy. Instead, ATP is often used to establish these gradients.

Focus on the correct explanation: The correct answer is that ion gradients create membrane potentials, which are essential for processes like nerve impulse transmission. This highlights their role in electrical signaling and cellular communication.

Summarize the key concept: Ion gradients are vital for maintaining membrane potential, which underpins critical cellular functions such as nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and secondary active transport of molecules.