A mature neuron keeps its chloride low

PHYSICS · Subjective · Fermi University Physics · Biophysics & Medical Physics · Molecular machines, transport and bioenergetics · Molecular machines, transport and bioenergetics

Life at Thermal Energy, Ch The membrane: barrier, capacitor and pump

Problem

A mature neuron keeps its chloride low, with concentrations cin=5 mMc_{\rm in} = 5\,\mathrm{mM} inside and cout=120 mMc_{\rm out} = 120\,\mathrm{mM} outside, at body temperature T=310 KT = 310\,\mathrm{K}, where kBT/e=26.7 mVk_BT/e = 26.7\,\mathrm{mV}. Chloride has valence z=−1z = -1. Calculate the Nernst (equilibrium) potential EClE_{\rm Cl} for this ion, quoting the correct sign.

Browse the problem library