In the context of the neural impulse,the outer membrane of a neuron is semipermeable,which indicates that _____.
A)only sodium ions can cross the membrane
B)the fluid outside the membrane has no electrical charge
C)fluids and ions can sometimes flow into and out of it
D)depolarization of the membranes cannot occur

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Semipermeable means that the membrane allows some substances to pass through while blocking others. In the context of the neural impulse, the outer membrane of a neuron is semipermeable, meaning that fluids and ions can sometimes flow into and out of it. This is crucial for the transmission of signals along the neuron. Sodium ions are one type of ion that can cross the membrane, but other ions like potassium and chloride can also cross under different conditions. The fluid outside the membrane does have an electrical charge, as it is rich in positively charged ions like sodium and hydrogen. Depolarization of the membrane can occur when sodium ions enter the cell, causing a shift in the electrical charge of the neuron.

In the Context of the Neural Impulse,the Outer Membrane of a Neuron