During the Resting Potential

Question

During the resting potential
A) the area just inside the membrane of a neuron is about 60 millivolts more positive than the fluid immediately outside the membrane.
B) the concentration of sodium ions is much greater outside the neuron than within it.
C) the membrane of the neuron would be described as being depolarized.
D) the neuron is relaying a message.

Accepted Answer

During the resting potential, the inside of the neuron's membrane is negatively charged compared to the outside, and the concentration of sodium ions (Na+) is indeed much greater outside the neuron than within it. This creates a difference in charge across the membrane, contributing to the neuron's ability to generate an action potential when stimulated. Choices A, C, and D describe conditions that are not characteristic of the resting potential.