The difference in electrical charge between the inside and the outside of a neuron's cell membrane is the:
A)difference potential.
B)refractory period.
C)resting potential.
D)action potential.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resting potential is the difference in electrical charge between the inside and the outside of a neuron's cell membrane when the neuron is at rest and not being stimulated. This is typically around -70 millivolts.

The other answer choices are related to different aspects of neuronal activity. The difference potential is not a commonly used term in neuroscience, and the refractory period refers to a brief period after an action potential when the neuron is unable to fire again. The action potential refers to the brief electrical signal that travels down the axon when a neuron is stimulated.

The Difference in Electrical Charge Between the Inside and the Outside