What does membrane potential refer to?

Membrane potential specifically refers to the voltage difference across a membrane, primarily the plasma membrane of a cell. This potential arises due to the unequal distribution of ions across the membrane, leading to a difference in charge inside the cell compared to outside.

This voltage difference is crucial for various cellular functions, including the propagation of electrical signals in neurons and muscle cells, the regulation of ion transport, and the overall homeostasis of the cell. The membrane potential can be influenced by the permeability of the membrane to specific ions, but it fundamentally describes the electrical state as a result of various ionic concentrations and movements.

Understanding membrane potential is vital for grasping concepts such as action potentials, resting potentials, and the physiological responses of cells to changes in their environment.