Electrical Shift During Depolarization of Ovum during fertilization
The egg's membrane is like a battery. Before a sperm enters, the egg membrane has a voltage difference across it: Membrane Potential = V inside − V outside ≈ −70 mV This means: The inside of the egg is more negative than the outside. There are more positive ions outside the cell and relatively more negative charge inside. This condition is called the resting membrane potential . What Happens When the First Sperm Fuses? The sperm's contact opens ion channels in the egg membrane. Large numbers of sodium ions (Na⁺) rush into the egg because: Sodium concentration is higher outside the cell. Sodium ions carry a positive charge. They naturally move into the cell through the opened channels. Why Does the Voltage Change? Imagine: Inside charge = −70 units Outside charge = 0 units When many positively charged sodium ions enter: The inside becomes less negative. Then it becomes neutral. Then it becomes positive. The membrane potential chang...