A Na⁺/K⁺ pump is found in the membranes of many types of cells. Three Na⁺ ions are pumped out of the cell for every two K⁺ ions pumped into the cell. As a result, positive charge builds up outside the cell compared to inside the cell. The potential difference across the membranes allows neurons to generate electrical impulses that lead to nerve impulses. The direction of the electric field produced

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electric field direction is determined by the direction of the force it would exert on a positive charge. Since positive charge builds up outside the cell due to the Na+/K+ pump activity, the electric field points from the region of higher positive charge (outside) to the region of lower positive charge (inside), which is from outside toward inside.

A Na+/K+ Pump Is Found in the Membranes of Many

A Na⁺/K⁺ Pump Is Found in the Membranes of Many