IB Biology HL C2.2 Neural signalling questions

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Question 1

Multiple choiceMedium1 mark

In a neuron, ATP availability is reduced while the membrane remains intact. Assume this affects sodium–potassium pumping only. After sufficient time, which paired change is most likely?

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Answer: C. ATP supplies energy for sodium–potassium pumping, which establishes and maintains ion concentration gradients. With less ATP, pump activity decreases; over time, the gradients weaken and the resting potential becomes less negative.

A: predicts weaker gradients but reverses their effect on the resting potential. B: assumes the pump becomes more active despite reduced ATP availability. D: treats the pump as dissipating, rather than establishing and maintaining, concentration gradients.

Remember: ATP-driven pumping maintains the ion gradients that support the resting potential.

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