Chapter Objectives

After studying this chapter, students should be able to . . .

1.

Describe diffusion and explain its physical basis.

2.

Explain how nonpolar molecules, inorganic ions, and water can diffuse through a cell membrane.

3.

State the factors that influence the rate of diffusion through cell membranes.

4.

Define the term osmosis and describe the conditions required for osmosis to occur.

5.

Define the terms osmolality and osmotic pressure and explain how these factors relate to osmosis.

6.

Define the terms tonicity and distinguish between isotonic, hypertonic and hypotonic solutions.

7.

Describe the characteristics of carrier-mediated transport.

8.

Describe the facilitated diffusion of glucose through cell membranes, and give examples of where this occurs in the body.

9.

Explain what is meant by active transport and describe how the Na⁺/K⁺ pumps work.

10.

Explain how an equilibrium potential is produced when only one ion is able to diffuse through a cell membrane.

11.

Explain why the resting membrane potential is slightly different than the potassium equilibrium potential, and describe the effect of the extracellular potassium concentration on the resting membrane potential.

12.

Explain the role of the Na⁺/K⁺ pumps in the maintenance of the resting membrane potential.

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