A neuron at a membrane potential of 55mV would not be depolarized if a chloride channel opened because chloride's equilibrium potential is around -70mV. Since the neuron is more positive than chloride's equilibrium potential, chloride ions would flow into the cell if the channel opened. This inward flow of negative chloride ions would make the membrane potential more negative, or hyperpolarize the neuron, rather than depolarize it.

1. Explain why a neuron would NOT be depolarized if a chloride channel opened up and the neuron
was at a membrane potential of 55mV. Consider chloride's equilibrium potential and the direction
that chloride would flow when the cell is more negative or more positive than that potential. Be
sure you understand the meaning of "depolarize" and "hyperpolarize." Additionally, consider the
fact that chloride is a negatively charged ion and thus carries negative charge wherever it goes (as
opposed to sodium and potassium, which are positively charged.