Ca2+ diffusion results in which change to the intracellular charge?

Prepare for the Cardiac Electrophysiology Test. Enhance your knowledge with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each supplemented with explanations and hints. Gear up for success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Ca2+ diffusion results in which change to the intracellular charge?

Explanation:
Ca2+ carries a +2 charge, and its diffusion into the cell brings positive charges into the cytosol. Since the inside of the cell contains fixed negative components, entry of Ca2+ makes the intracellular milieu less negative and more positive, effectively depolarizing the membrane. So the intracellular charge becomes more positive. (Diffusing outward or no movement would not produce this change.)

Ca2+ carries a +2 charge, and its diffusion into the cell brings positive charges into the cytosol. Since the inside of the cell contains fixed negative components, entry of Ca2+ makes the intracellular milieu less negative and more positive, effectively depolarizing the membrane. So the intracellular charge becomes more positive. (Diffusing outward or no movement would not produce this change.)

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