Q: How will the UK negotiate its withdrawal from the EU?

A: Under Article 50 of the Treaty of Europe, a country that wants to leave must serve notice then conclude withdrawal talks within two years, unless all 28 member countries agree to extend the period.

Q: Will new deals on trade, health care, travel and other arrangements be struck by then.

A: Doubtful. Experts fear it will take substantially longer to forge a new and lasting relationship with the EU.

Q: Can Scotland stay in the EU, having voted to Remain?

A: No, the UK is the member state. That's why Nicola Sturgeon says it is "highly likely" she will call a second independence referendum within the two year negotiating period.

Q: Would becoming independent definitely safeguard Scotland's EU membership?

A: Most experts believe the EU would accept Scotland's continued membership. It could expect to become a member state in its own right if it became independent before the UK formally left.

Q: On the same terms and conditions?

A: No. Scotland would have to negotiate a fresh deal, which might not include a share of the UK's present cash rebate. It might also require a commitment to join the euro single currency.

Q: But wouldn't Scotland be negotiating its exit from the UK at the same time?

A: Yes. And, potentially, that would be even more complicated.

Q: What does Nicola Sturgeon think about the prospect of the UK negotiating to leave the EU while Scotland is negotiating to leave the UK and also negotiating membership terms with the EU all at the same time.

A: It's giving her sleepless nights. Senior civil servants do not believe their are enough experienced negotiators in Whitehall, never mind St Andrew's House, to cope.