A major factor contributing to the relative negativity of the neuron's internal environment at rest is
A) its large amount of sodium.
B) its large amount of potassium.
C) the presence of negatively charged protein ions.
D) the absence of negatively charged protein ions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of negatively charged protein ions, also known as anionic proteins, contributes to the relatively negative internal environment of the neuron at rest. This is due to the fact that these proteins have a net negative charge, and are thus attracted to the positively charged extracellular fluid, leading to an accumulation of negative charges in the neuron's interior. The large amounts of sodium and potassium ions also play a role in generating the resting potential, but they are not the primary factor contributing to the negativity of the neuron's internal environment at rest.

A Major Factor Contributing to the Relative Negativity of the Neuron's