Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Bioelectric potentials

The body of an animal is electrically active. Same is the case with human beings. Electrical signals are generated in the body when parts of the body perform some functions. These electrical signals carry the information about the functions. Brain, heart and muscles generate bioelectric potentials. These potentials are actually ionic voltages developed during electrochemical activity of certain special types of cells. By using transducers we can convert these potentials into electrical voltages which can be displayed in a monitor display. This helps doctor in diagnosis and treatment. Nerve and muscle cells in human body are encased in a semipermeable membrane. These cells are surrounded by body fluids. These body fluids are conducting solutions. Conductivity is due to the presence of sodium, potassium and chloride ions.

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