Biology 235, Fall 2001

RMP worksheet

Below are outlines of correct answers

1.  Decrease chemical gradient for K⁺ à more K⁺ left inside à RMP less negative

2.  Increase chemical gradient for K⁺ à less K⁺ left inside à RMP more negative

3.  Not much of an effect since membrane is only slightly permeable to Na⁺; however if you were to state that the RMP would become less negative as more Na⁺ would leak in  (greater concentration gradient), I’d go along with it.

4.  Not much of an effect since membrane is only slightly permeable to Na⁺; however I’d buy the argument that you have reduced the concentration gradient for Na+, less leaks in than normal, nad as such RMP more negative.

5.  RMP more negative as more K⁺ leaves cell

6.   RMP less negative as less K⁺ leaves cell

7.  More Na⁺ enters, RMP less negative

8.   Can’t really decrease Na⁺ permeability much more, it is already pretty low – I’d have to argue for no effect (however if you were thinking RMP more negative, I can see what you’re thinking….)