The electrical charge that exists between the inside and the outside of a neuron when the neuron is neither receiving nor sending is approximately
A) -1000 millivolts
B) +60 to +70 millivolts
C) -60 to -70 millivolts
D) +1000 millivolts

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The electrical charge that exists between the inside and the outside of a neuron when the neuron is neither receiving nor sending is called the resting potential. This potential is maintained by the sodium-potassium pump, which pumps three sodium ions out of the neuron for every two potassium ions it pumps in. This creates a net negative charge inside the neuron, resulting in a resting potential of approximately -60 to -70 millivolts. Choice A is incorrect because -1000 millivolts is far too extreme and not a biologically viable resting potential. Choice B is incorrect because +60 to +70 millivolts is a positive resting potential, which does not occur in neurons. Choice D is also incorrect because +1000 millivolts is far too extreme and not a biologically viable resting potential.

The Electrical Charge That Exists Between the Inside and the Outside