If you inserted a micropipette into a neuron without harming the cell and pumped in a small quantity of calcium ions, each of which carried two positive charges, how would this affect the membrane potential?
A)The membrane potential would become depolarized relative to the resting potential.
B)The membrane potential would become hyperpolarized relative to the resting potential.
C)There would be no change because calcium does not contribute to the resting potential.
D)There would be no change because the sodium-potassium pump would remove excess calcium from the cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Calcium ions carry a positive charge, and the influx of positive charges into the neuron would increase the positive charge inside the cell. As a result, the membrane potential would become less negative (or depolarized) relative to the resting potential. This could trigger the opening of voltage-gated ion channels and generate an action potential if the depolarization reaches a certain threshold.

If You Inserted a Micropipette into a Neuron Without Harming