The chemical that causes repolarization is potassium (K+).
During repolarization, potassium ions move out of the cell, making the inside of the cell more negative and returning the membrane potential to its resting state. This movement of potassium ions is driven by the concentration gradient and the electrical gradient across the membrane.
Repolarization is an essential step in the action potential, which is the electrical signal that travels along nerve and muscle cells. This process allows the cell to return to its resting state and prepare for another action potential.
Here are some key points to remember about repolarization:
- It follows depolarization, which is the initial rise in membrane potential.
- It is caused by the outward movement of potassium ions.
- It returns the membrane potential to its resting state.
