Explain why sodium and hydrogen ions do not diffuse at the same rate
Answers
Answer:
Aims
By studying this chapter you should aim to understand the physical processes which lead to the
existence of membrane potentials for both equilibrium and non-equilibrium situations. You should
be able to explain these processes in your own words and apply the ideas to examples and simple
quantitative problems.
Minimum learning goals
When you have finished studying this chapter you should be able to do all of the following.
1. Explain, interpret and use the terms:
concentration, concentration ratio, number density, pH, ion diffusion, semipermeable
membrane, permeant ion, diffusion potential, Nernst equilibrium, Nernst potential, Nernst
equation, ion pump, sodium-potassium pump, junction potential, Donnan equilibrium,
Donnan potential.
2. Describe and explain the processes of ion diffusion and Nernst equilibrium
3. Describe and discuss the roles of ion diffusion, ion pumps and stable diffusion potentials in
living organisms.
4. State and use the Nernst equation.
5. Describe and explain the operating principles of a pH meter.
6. Distinguish between equilibrium and non-equilibrium ion diffusion potentials and explain the
conditions which give rise to a Donnan equilibrium.
Answer:both the sodium and hydrogen ions have different masses causing them to diffuse at different rates
Explanation: