AbstractThe membrane potentials of thin (300–1300 A.) nitrocellulose (Parlodion) membranes have been investigated. Measurements were made in a Lucite cell by use of calomel electrodes with 0.05N KCl and 0.1N KCl. Variables having an influence on membrane structure, such as solvent polarity, temperature, and thickness, have been studied in relation to membrane potential. The range of potentials observed for Parlodion (2.1–9.2 mv.) is believed to be the result of differences in the orientation of the nitrocellulose molecules (and their accompanying electrochemically active carboxyl groups) in the membrane structure.