Sodium ions will be pushed into a resting neuron by the forces of
A) inactivation of potassium channels; diffusion.
B) electrostatic pressure; sodium-potassium pump activation.
C) sodium-potassium pump activation; diffusion.
D) ion channel inactivation; diffusion.
E) diffusion; electrostatic pressure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Sodium ions are pushed into a resting neuron primarily due to two forces: diffusion and electrostatic pressure. Diffusion drives sodium ions from an area of high concentration (outside the neuron) to an area of low concentration (inside the neuron). Electrostatic pressure also pushes sodium ions into the neuron because the inside of the neuron is negatively charged relative to the outside, attracting the positively charged sodium ions.

Sodium Ions Will Be Pushed into a Resting Neuron by the Forces