NERNST POTENTIAL Meaning and
Definition
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The Nernst potential refers to the electrochemical potential difference across a membrane when a particular ion is at equilibrium. It is named after the German scientist Walther Nernst, who formulated the Nernst equation that describes this potential. The Nernst potential is a vital concept in understanding the movement of ions across biological and artificial membranes.
The Nernst potential is determined by the concentration gradient and the electrical gradient across the membrane. It represents the voltage at which the net movement of a particular ion is zero, meaning there is no net flux of ions in either direction. At this equilibrium potential, the force driving the ion into the cell is equal and opposite to the force pushing it out.
The Nernst equation mathematically expresses the Nernst potential and is given by:
E = (RT/zF) * ln([ion]out/[ion]in)
Where E is the Nernst potential, R is the gas constant, T is the temperature, z is the valence of the ion, F is Faraday's constant, [ion]out is the concentration of the ion outside the membrane, and [ion]in is the concentration of the ion inside the membrane.
Understanding the Nernst potential is crucial in various physiological processes such as nerve signaling, muscle contraction, and ion transport in cells. It allows researchers to study and manipulate ion movement to gain insights into cellular functions and develop therapies for various medical conditions.
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Etymology of NERNST POTENTIAL
The term "Nernst potential" is named after Walther Nernst, a German physical chemist who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1920 for his work on thermochemistry and electrochemistry. The Nernst potential, also known as the Nernst equation, quantifies the electrochemical potential difference across a cell membrane at equilibrium. It relates the concentration gradient of ions to the electrical potential and temperature of the system. The equation was first derived by Nernst in his groundbreaking work on electrochemistry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
