Question

Discuss what would occur if voltage-regulated Na+ and K+ gates opened at the same time, rather than at different times, during the production of an action potential? How does this compare to what happens during a normal action potential?

Answer 1

If voltage-regulated Na+ and K+ gates opened at the same time then the potential nears +30mv, the rate of depolarisation slows down as the voltage gated sodium channels becomes saturated and inactivated, preventing further sodium ions from entering the cell. Voltage gated potassium channel open and potassium leaves the cell down its concentration gradient. During normal actions potential, the principal ions involved an action potential are sodium and potassium cation. Na+ enters the cell and causes depolarisation. Potassium ions leaves the cell resulting repolarization, restoring equilibrium.