Definition

The process of returning to a state where there is a difference in electrical charge across a cell membrane after it has been disturbed.

Example

After the muscle fiber contracts, repolarization occurs to restore the electrical balance.

Conversation

I was reading about how muscles work, and I came across the term repolarization.

Oh, that sounds interesting! What does it mean?

It's basically the process of restoring the charge difference across a cell membrane after it contracts, like in muscle fibers.

Got it! So, repolarization is essential for muscles to function properly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Repolarization is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "polarization" (from "polar" meaning having poles or opposites, derived from Latin "polaris" meaning of the poles, and "-ization" which indicates a process). The term refers to the process of restoring the original polarization state after it has been altered.

Memory Tip

Think of 're-' meaning again, and 'polarization' referring to the state of having poles. This helps you remember that repolarization means restoring the original state of having poles.

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