Which of the following will induce a graded hyperpolarization of a membrane under normal resting conditions?
A) increasing its permeability to Na+
B) decreasing its permeability to Cl-
C) increasing its permeability to Ca++
D) increasing its permeability to K+

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increasing the permeability of a membrane to potassium ions (K+) will induce a graded hyperpolarization. This is because potassium ions tend to move out of the cell when their channels open, due to the concentration gradient (higher inside the cell than outside). As potassium ions leave the cell, they take positive charge with them, making the inside of the cell more negative compared to the outside, thus hyperpolarizing the membrane.

Which of the Following Will Induce a Graded Hyperpolarization of a Membrane