[Campbell Biology P.1118] According to Concept 48.2, what does a neuron's "resting potential"... | Practice Question

According to Concept 48.2, what does a neuron's "resting potential" primarily indicate?

  • A: The neuron is actively transmitting an action potential.
  • B: The inside of the neuron is negatively charged relative to the outside, typically between -60 and -80 millivolts, when the neuron is not sending a signal.
  • C: There is an equal distribution of ions across the plasma membrane, leading to zero net charge difference.
  • D: The neuron is undergoing structural changes to its cell body and dendrites.

Explanation

Concept 48.2 explicitly defines resting potential: "For a resting neuron—one that is not sending a signal—the membrane potential is called the resting potential and is typically between -60 and -80 millivolts mV ." It also states that "the inside of a cell is negatively charged relative to the outside" due to unequal ion distribution. Option B combines these key characteristics.