Question

Following repolarization, the neuron may become slightly hyperpolarized before it re-establishes its resting membrane potential. Hyperpolarization is due to a difference between how the voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels work. What is this difference?

Answer 1

Membrane potential

Explanation:

• Membrane potential represents charge difference across the membrane, all biological cells are negative inside (cytoplasm) and positive outside (due to difference in ionic distribution)  
• In a typical neuron cell membrane potential of cytoplasm is negative at rest (when no stimulus is applied) hence called resting membrane potential
• Resting membrane potential of excitable cells is established by Na+ and K+pump
• Repolarization starts with the efflux of K+ by the opening of voltage gated K+ channels
• Voltage gated K+ channels starts to open when voltage gated Na+ channels becomes inactive
• Hyperpolarization occurs due to excessive efflux of K+ by voltage gated K+ channels
• Additional efflux of K+ occurs due to slow inactivation of voltage gated K+ channels