What effect does hyperkalemia have on the resting cell?

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Hyperkalemia refers to an elevated level of potassium (K+) ions in the bloodstream. This condition can significantly impact the resting membrane potential of cells, particularly excitable cells such as neurons and muscle cells.

In a normal physiological state, the resting membrane potential is typically around -70 mV due to the higher concentration of potassium ions inside the cell compared to the outside. When the extracellular potassium concentration increases, the concentration gradient across the cell membrane is reduced. This change leads to a decrease in the efflux of potassium ions from the cell, which contributes to making the inside of the cell less negative or more positive.

As a result, the membrane potential becomes less negative than the typical resting potential, leading to a state known as depolarization. This depolarized state can also make it easier for the cell to reach the threshold for action potentials, potentially leading to increased excitability or abnormal firing patterns of the cell.

Thus, the effect of hyperkalemia on the resting cell is characterized by depolarization, making this the correct response.

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