Membrane potentials I. The theory of the e. m. f. of cells containing ion-exchange membranes

Abstract

The principal theories of membrane potential are rigorously reformulated and compared. The limitations of the theory of Teorell-Meyers-Sievers are discussed, as are those of the pseudo-thermostatic treatment of Scatchard. The theory of irreversible thermodynamics is applied in a form in which the velocities of ion and solvent molecules are both referred to that of the centre of mass of the system. The conditions under which these theories may be tested are also considered.