Answer to Question #279208 in Physics for ZAR

Question

Neurons are components of the nervous system of the body that transmit

signals as electrical impulses travel along their length. These impulses propagate

when charge suddenly rushes into and then out of a part of the neuron called axaon.

Measurements have shown that, during the inflow part of this cycle, approximately

3.6x10" Na+ (sodium ions) per meter, each with charge +e, enters the axon. How

many coulombs of charge enters a 1.59 cm length of the axon during this process

Answer 1

This is simple to count. 3.6·10¹¹ ions each having charge e make up the total charge of

$$Q=Ne=5.77·10^{-8}\text{ C}.$$

1 meter fits charge Q, 1.59 cm contain

$$q=0.0159Q=9.17·10^{-10}\text{ C}.$$