What does it really mean when scientists say that a neuron has a resting potential of -70mV?
A) The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70mV, with the interior being more negative than the exterior.
B) The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70mV, with the exterior being more negative than the interior.
C) The interior of the cell has a charge of -70mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +70mV, for a total difference of 140mV.
D) The interior of the cell has a charge of -35mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +35mV, for a total difference of 70mV.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A neuron's resting potential refers to the difference in electrical charge between the inside and outside of the cell. The negative sign indicates that the inside of the cell is more negative than the outside, and the value of -70mV indicates the magnitude of this difference. Option A correctly describes this concept. Option B is incorrect because it suggests that the exterior of the cell is more negative than the interior. Option C is incorrect because it suggests that the exterior of the cell has a positive charge, which is not true. Option D is incorrect because it suggests that the total difference in charge is only 35mV, which is half of the correct value.

What Does It Really Mean When Scientists Say That a Neuron