University of Balamand September 13, 2010

Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences

GPHY 402
Dr. M. Khachab

Principles of Equilibria

Applications

Question 1

ƒ Chambers A and B are

separated by a membrane
as shown in the figure
¾ If K+ is in equilibrium
across the membrane,
what is the value of
EA – EB ?
¾ Which side is electrically
positive with respect to the
other?

Principles of Equilibria: Applications

University of Balamand September 13, 2010
Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences
GPHY 402
Dr. M. Khachab

Answer 1

ƒ The electrical potential difference, EA – EB , is -60 mV in

value
‰ Side A is negative with respect to side B
‰ Side B is positive with respect to side A
ƒ If K+ is in equilibrium across the membrane, K+ satisfies
the Nernst Equation
EA – EB = (-60mV/z) log [K+]A/ [K+]B
EA – EB = (-60mV/+1) log (1/0.1)
EA – EB = - 60 mV

Question 2

ƒ K+ is in equilibrium
across the
membrane of the
cell shown in the
figure
¾ If Cl- is also in
equilibrium, what
is the intracellular
Cl-
concentration?

Principles of Equilibria: Applications

University of Balamand September 13, 2010
Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences
GPHY 402
Dr. M. Khachab

Answer 2

ƒ Use the Gibbs-Donnan Equation or the Donnan Relation

[K+]A [Cl-]A = [K+]B [Cl-]B

This Equation holds for a pair of univalent cation and anion

in EQUILIBRIUM across the membrane
[K+]in [Cl-]in = [K+]out [Cl-]out
[140] [Cl-] = [15] [120]
[Cl-]= 12.857mM

Question 3

ƒ A membrane permeable to K+, Cl-,

and water separates chambers A
and B. The membrane is
impermeable to X-. We place
solutions in A and B of
concentrations indicated in the
Figure. Chamber A and the
membrane are rigid.
ƒ At equilibrium, what will be:
1. The concentrations of all ionic
species in A and B?
2. The transmembrane voltage (EA
– EB)
3. Will a hydrostatic pressure exist
in A that exceeds the pressure
in B?

Principles of Equilibria: Applications

University of Balamand September 13, 2010
Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences
GPHY 402
Dr. M. Khachab

Answer 3

1.
ION A B
K+ 0.666… 0.333…
Cl- 0.166… 0.333…
X- 0.5 0

2. EA – EB = -18 mV
3. Yes

Principles of Equilibria: Applications