Which of the following is true regarding the generation of a membrane potential?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both potassium and sodium ions can "leak" through the cell membrane due to diffusion, which is one of the factors that contribute to the generation of a membrane potential. The other factors include active transport mechanisms like the sodium-potassium pump and the concentration gradients of ions on both sides of the cell membrane. Option A is incorrect as the maintenance of the potential also involves active transport mechanisms. Option B is incorrect as the concentrations of ions are not static in the polarized state, but rather maintained by active transport mechanisms. Option D is incorrect as the sodium-potassium pump pumps out three sodium ions and brings in two potassium ions, and this does not directly cause the membrane potential.

Which of the Following Is True Regarding the Generation of a Membrane