A cell with leak channels that are only permeable to Cl^- has been placed in a petri dish. Which of the following statements accurately describes the relationship between the concentration gradient and the Cl^- equilibrium potential (E_Cl)? A) A higher concentration of Cl^- outside the cell will create a positive equilibrium potential. B) A higher concentration of Cl^- inside the cell will create a positive equilibrium potential. C) A higher concentration of Cl^- inside the cell will create a negative equilibrium potential. D) It does not matter what the initial concentration is because Cl^- will always reach a negative equilibrium potential.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The equilibrium potential (E_Cl) for Cl^- will be positive if the concentration inside the cell is higher than outside, following the Nernst equation. Therefore, a higher concentration of Cl^- inside the cell will create a positive equilibrium potential. Choice A is incorrect because a higher concentration of Cl^- outside the cell would create a negative equilibrium potential. Choice C is incorrect because a higher concentration of Cl^- inside the cell would create a positive not negative equilibrium potential. Choice D is incorrect because the equilibrium potential will be positive or negative depending on the concentration gradient.

A Cell with Leak Channels That Are Only Permeable to Cl-

A Cell with Leak Channels That Are Only Permeable to Cl^-