What does it really mean when we say that a neuron has a resting potential of -70 mV?
A)The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70 mV, with the interior being more negative than the exterior.
B) The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70 mV, with the exterior being more negative than the interior.
C) The interior of the cell has a charge of -70 mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +70 mV, for a total difference of 140 mV.
D) The interior of the cell has a charge of -35 mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +35 mV, for a total difference of 70 mV.

Question

What does it really mean when we say that a neuron has a resting potential of -70 mV? 
A)The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70 mV, with the interior being more negative than the exterior. 
B) The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70 mV, with the exterior being more negative than the interior.​ 
C) The interior of the cell has a charge of -70 mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +70 mV, for a total difference of 140 mV.​ 
D) The interior of the cell has a charge of -35 mV, whereas the exterior of the cell has a charge of +35 mV, for a total difference of 70 mV.​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resting potential of a neuron refers to the difference in electrical charge between the inside and outside of the cell. A resting potential of -70 mV means that the inside of the neuron is 70 mV more negative than the outside. Therefore, the correct option is B: The difference between the electrical environment of the interior of the cell and the exterior of the cell is 70 mV, with the exterior being more negative than the interior.

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