In a resting neuron,
A)The plasma membrane is freely permeable to sodium ion
B)The concentration of sodium ion is greater inside the cell than outside
C)The permeability of the plasma membrane to potassium ion is about 50 times greater than its permeability to sodium ion
D)The plasma membrane is completely impermeable to sodium ion
E)None of the choices are true

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resting neuron has a high permeability to potassium ions, which are able to diffuse out of the cell. The concentration of potassium is higher inside the cell than outside. The permeability to sodium ions is low, meaning that very few sodium ions enter the cell. The concentration of sodium is higher outside the cell than inside. Overall, this creates a negative resting membrane potential.

In a Resting Neuron