Under certain circumstances, potassium ions ( K+K+ ) in a cell will move across the cell membrane from the inside to the outside. The potential inside the cell is −70.5 mV−70.5 mV and the potential outside the cell is zero. What is the change in the electrical potential energy of a single potassium ion as it moves across the membrane?

the change in the electrical potential energy of a single potassium ion as it moves across the membrane is 1.12941 × 10⁻²⁰  J

Explanation:

The formula used in determining the change in the electrical potential energy can be expressed by the relation.

Charge in electrical Potential energy =

where q = the potassium ion

q =  18 electrons and 19 protons

q = 19-18 = 1 electron  

1 electron = 1.602 × 10⁻¹⁹ Coulombs

Thus;

the  potential inside the cell is −70.5 mV

= -70.5 × 10⁻³ V

∴ Charge in electrical Potential energy =

Charge in electrical Potential energy =

Charge in electrical Potential energy  = 1.12941 × 10⁻²⁰  J

Thus; the change in the electrical potential energy of a single potassium ion as it moves across the membrane is 1.12941 × 10⁻²⁰  J

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