The resting membrane potential provides a means for a neuron to respond to a stimulus.To maintain the resting potential, neurons rely on ion transporters such as
A) leak channels.
B) passive sodium channels.
C) the sodium−potassium pump.
D) ATP.
E) diffusion channels.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sodium-potassium pump helps maintain the resting potential by actively transporting three sodium ions out of the cell and two potassium ions into the cell, creating an electrochemical gradient. This process requires ATP. Leak channels and diffusion channels do not require active transport and therefore do not contribute to maintaining the resting potential. Passive sodium channels do not exist.

The Resting Membrane Potential Provides a Means for a Neuron