The resting membrane potential in nerve and skeletal muscle is determined primarily by
A) extracellular sodium ion concentration.
B) the ratio of intracellular to extracellular potassium ions.
C) activation of voltage-gated sodium channels.
D) activity of energy-dependent membrane pumps.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The major determinant of the resting membrane potential is the difference in potassium ion concentration across the membrane.Extracellular sodium helps maintain cell volume and resting membrane potential,but it is not the primary determinant.Activation of voltage-gated sodium channels help initiate an action potential.Channels are not linked to an energy source; ions flow passively across the cell membrane.

The Resting Membrane Potential in Nerve and Skeletal Muscle Is