Two Electrodes, One on Either Side of the Cell Membrane

question 177

Multiple Choice

Two electrodes, one on either side of the cell membrane of a resting neuron, show a difference of about ‒65 mV.If the value changes quickly to about +50 mV and then rapidly returns to ‒65 mV, the most likely explanation is that

• A) the cell membrane briefly became hyperpolarized.
• B) a graded potential passed by the electrodes.
• C) an action potential was triggered by changes in voltage-gated Na⁺ and K⁺ channels.
• D) voltage-gated Na⁺ channels closed, causing a spike of depolarization, and then opened again.
• E) leak K⁺ channels opened and then closed.

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Definitions:

Marginal Benefit

The boost in satisfaction or utility received from consuming one more unit of a good or service.

Efficiency Loss

The reduction in economic efficiency due to factors like market distortions, resulting in resources not being allocated optimally.

Deadweight Loss

refers to the loss of economic efficiency that can occur when the equilibrium for a good or service is not achieved, leading to a reduction in total societal welfare.

Consumer Surplus

The difference between what consumers are willing to pay for a good or service and what they actually pay, representing the benefit to consumers.