Which of the following gradients describes an electrical charge difference across a membrane?

• A. Concentration gradients
• B. Electrical gradients
• C. Electrochemical gradients
• D. Membrane potential

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a gradient: In cell biology, a gradient refers to a difference in concentration, charge, or pressure between two regions. Gradients drive the movement of substances across membranes.
2. Differentiate between types of gradients: Concentration gradients involve differences in the concentration of molecules across a membrane, while electrical gradients involve differences in charge.
3. Define electrical gradients: An electrical gradient is a difference in electric charge across a membrane, which can influence the movement of ions and other charged particles.
4. Explain electrochemical gradients: These are combined gradients of concentration and electrical charge, affecting the movement of ions across membranes.
5. Clarify membrane potential: This is the voltage difference across a cell membrane, resulting from the distribution of ions, and is a specific type of electrical gradient.