Part A Children have about 10^16 synapses that can transfer signals between neur

Question

Part A

Children have about 10^16 synapses that can transfer signals between neurons in the brain and between neurons and muscle cells. Suppose that these synapses simultaneously transmit a signal, sending 1000 calcium ions (Ca^2+) across the membrane at each synaptic ending. Determine the total electric charge transfer in coulombs during that short time interval. By comparison, a lightning flash involves about 5C of charge transfer. (Note: This is a fictional scenario. All human neurons do not simultaneously produce signals.) e=1.6×10^19C.

Express your answer to two significant figures and include the appropriate units.

Q=

Explanation / Answer

here,

number of free electrons in one calcium ion , n = 2

number of electrons in one signal , ns = 1000 * 2

ns = 2000

number of electrons in total synapases , n' = 2000*10^16

the total electric charge transfer in coulombs during that short time interval , Q = n' * e

Q = 2000*10^16 * 1.6 * 10^-19 C

Q = 3.2 C

the total electric charge transfer in coulombs during that short time interval is 3.2 C

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