While controversial, capital punishment is a part of the justice system in several states. The old methods of firing squad hanging or the electric chair have been replaced by the more humane lethal injection. The cocktail used involves a barbituate, a paralyzing compound and a potassium solution to stop the heart.

Regarding the infusion of large amounts of potassium into the bloodstream why would this be so deadly? Explain the effects on a muscle if the cells were surrounded by high levels of potassium. Think about membrane potentials as explained in the lesson.What impact on muscle contraction will the change in membrane potentials have?

Keep in mind this isn't a book report on capital punishment. Focus on the effects of potassium in this example. Use resources if you choose but the lesson has all you need to know if you think about it and understand the concept fully.

* Described effects of high potassium on electrical activity

* Related effects to muscle cells

When the spanish conquistadores encountered the peoples of South America they encountered a weapon uknown to them at the time. The natives used curare, poison taken from the bark of a local vine to hunt animals. The poisoned arrows worked equally well on the invading conquistadores..... death due to respiratory failure.

Since that time a derivative of curare, Tubocurarine, has been effectively used as an anesthetic during surgery. The drug competes with acetylcholine for binding sites on muscle cells. What effect on muscle function would this interference cause? Which enzyme could you inhibit to restore normal function?

Again, this is not a book report on curarie. The lesson holds the answer to this question though you may use other resources. Be careful not to copy from them however.

* Described specific effects of curare on muscle function

* Described which enzyme would inhibit effects of curarie

While controversial, capital punishment is a part of the justice sy...