Why do Na⁺ ions enter the cell when voltage-gated Na⁺ channels are opened in neurons?
A)because the Na⁺ concentration is much higher outside the cell than it is inside
B)because the Na⁺ ions are attracted to the negatively charged interior
C)because the Na⁺ ions are actively transported by the sodium-potassium pump into the cell
D)because the Na⁺ concentration is much higher outside the cell than it is inside,and the Na⁺ ions are attracted to the negatively charged interior
E)because the Na⁺ concentration is much higher outside the cell than it is inside,and the Na⁺ ions are actively transported by the sodium-potassium pump into the cell

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Voltage-gated Na⁺ channels open in response to a change in membrane potential, allowing Na⁺ ions to flow down their concentration gradient from a higher concentration outside the cell to a lower concentration inside the cell. Additionally, the negatively charged interior of the cell attracts positively charged Na⁺ ions. The sodium-potassium pump does not play a role in this process.

Why Do Na⁺ Ions Enter the Cell When Voltage-Gated Na⁺