The interior surface of a neuron's plasma membrane at resting membrane potential will have a________.
A) negative charge and contains less sodium than outside of the cell
B) positive charge and contains less sodium than outside of the cell
C) positive charge and contains more sodium than outside of the cell
D) negative charge and contains more sodium than outside of the cell

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At resting membrane potential, the interior surface of a neuron's plasma membrane has a negative charge due to an excess of negatively charged ions (such as proteins) inside the cell. Additionally, there is a higher concentration of sodium ions outside of the cell compared to inside, due to the action of the sodium-potassium pump. Therefore, choice A is the best answer as it correctly states that the interior surface of the membrane is negatively charged and contains less sodium than outside of the cell.

The Interior Surface of a Neuron's Plasma Membrane at Resting