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| Description: This hypothetical example depicts two chambers separated by a membrane that is permeable to K+. (a) In this example, the compartments initially contain equal concentrations of K+, but an electrical gradient exists because of an unequal distribution of Na+ and Cl?. Potassium ions are attracted to the more negative charge on the right side of the membrane. (b) In this case, there is no electrical gradient across the membrane, and the left compartment contains a lower concentration of KCl compared with the right compartment. In water, the KCl dissociates to K+ and Cl? Under these conditions, K+ diffuses down its chemical concentration gradient from right to left. (c) This example illustrates opposing chemical and electrical gradients. The right compartment contains a higher chemical concentration of K+, while the left side more positive charge. These gradients balance each other so that no net movement of K+ occurs.
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