logo
AAT Bioquest

What are the main factors that determine the membrane potential?

Posted July 3, 2024


Answer

The two main factors that determine the membrane potential are: 

  • Differences in the concentration of ions inside and outside the cell. Potassium, sodium, chloride, and calcium ions have the biggest impact on the generation of membrane potential because they are present in the highest concentrations. 
  • Variable permeability of the plasma membrane for different ion species.
Additional resources

The Microbiologist's Guide to Membrane Potential Dynamics

Cell/Cytoplasmic Membrane Potential Activity & Analysis

Di-8-ANEPPS *CAS#: 157134-53-7*