Most of the membrane potential of the plasma membrane is established by the active transport of sodium and potassium ions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The active transport of sodium and potassium ions by the sodium-potassium pump is responsible for creating and maintaining the majority of the membrane potential in cells. This pump moves three sodium ions out of the cell for every two potassium ions brought into the cell, resulting in a net loss of positive charge inside the cell and a negative membrane potential.

Most of the Membrane Potential of the Plasma Membrane Is