What behavior is observed if the voltage across a neuronal membrane is set to -20 mV?

a.The potassium channel opens, and K+ ions flow in.

b.The sodium channel opens, and Na+ ions flow in.

c.The voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels both remain closed.

d.The sodium channel opens, and Na+ ions flow out.


Answer :

The sodium channel opens, and Na+ ions flow in is the correct behavior observed when the voltage across a neuronal membrane is -20 mV.

The stable state of the cell is referred to as the "resting membrane potential," which is a dynamic process that balances ions that leak down their concentration gradient and ions that are pushed back up their concentration gradient. The resting membrane potential will remain unchanged regardless of external factors.

When a voltage across a neuronal membrane is set to -20 mV, this facilitates the opening of voltage-gated sodium channels in the neuronal membrane.  This is because the concentration of Na+ is higher outside than inside the cell.

Therefore, the ions will rush into the cell by chemical and electrical gradients. As the sodium ions keep entering the cell, it will cause the membrane less negative. This process is known as depolarization.

Therefore, the correct statement is option b.

To know more about resting potential:

https://brainly.com/question/8438145

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