In a neuron at rest, the resting membrane potential is mainly due to A) the number of voltage-gated channels in the membrane. B) the difference in the concentrations of Na⁺ inside and outside of the cell. C) passive leak currents in the cell membrane. D) the active transport of K⁺ ions out of the cell. E) the electrical charge in the extracellular fluid.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The resting membrane potential is mainly due to passive leak currents in the cell membrane. These passive leaks allow small amounts of ions to flow across the membrane, creating a slight charge separation between the inside and outside of the cell. This generates a voltage difference across the membrane, which is the resting membrane potential. The other options may contribute to changes in membrane potential during an action potential, but they are not primarily responsible for the resting membrane potential.

In a Neuron at Rest, the Resting Membrane Potential Is