When a neuron is at rest, the inside of the cell
A) has no charge.
B) has a slight positive charge relative to the outside.
C) has a charge identical to the outside.
D) has a slight negative charge relative to the outside.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a neuron is at rest, there is a higher concentration of negatively charged ions (such as proteins and chloride) inside the neuron compared to the outside. This creates a slight negative charge, typically around -70 millivolts, relative to the outside of the cell. This difference in charge is maintained by the sodium-potassium pump and other ion channels in the cell membrane.

When a Neuron Is at Rest, the Inside of the Cell