If a monovalent cation is being imported into a cell in the absence of a concentration gradient (i.e., the concentration for the transported cation is equal on both sides of the membrane), what could you predict about $\Delta$G_t? Assume the transmembrane potential is 50mV (inside negative).

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transmembrane potential is 50mV (inside negative), which means there is an electrical gradient favoring the import of the cation into the cell. This would result in a negative value for the Gibbs free energy change (ΔG_t), indicating a spontaneous process.

If a Monovalent Cation Is Being Imported into a Cell Δ\DeltaΔ

If a Monovalent Cation Is Being Imported into a Cell $\Delta$