Both the chemical and electrical gradients of potassium favors its movement out of the cell. True False

Question Analysis

The statement regarding potassium's movement out of the cell due to chemical and electrical gradients refers to the principles of cellular ionic movement, particularly in the context of resting membrane potential.

Relevant Concepts

1. Chemical Gradient: This represents the concentration difference of potassium (K⁺) ions, which typically has a higher concentration inside the cell compared to outside. This gradient favors the movement of K⁺ ions out of the cell.

2. Electrical Gradient: When K⁺ ions move out of the cell, it leaves behind negatively charged ions, creating a negative charge inside relative to the outside. This negative interior creates an electrical gradient that opposes further movement of K⁺ out of the cell.

Analysis

• The chemical gradient indeed favors the movement of K⁺ ions out of the cell, as there is a higher concentration of K⁺ inside.
• However, the electrical gradient that develops from K⁺ leaving the cell creates a situation where further exit of K⁺ ions becomes less favorable, as positive charges moving out would leave a more negative interior, which attracts positively charged K⁺ ions back into the cell.

Verify and Summarize

Therefore, the statement is False. While the chemical gradient favors K⁺ exiting the cell, the electrical gradient works against it, leading to a complex equilibrium situation.

Final Answer

False: The chemical gradient favors potassium's movement out of the cell, but the electrical gradient opposes it.