Why is the resting membrane potential of a neurone negative when there are positive ions inside the cell?

The resting membrane potential inside the neurone (-70mV) is negative relative the outside! This means that even though there are both Na+ and K+ ions inside the cell, there are fewer of them (-70mV fewer) inside the cell compared to the outside. There are also more negative ions, e.g. Cl-, inside the cell compared to outside. The 'membrane potential' (charge) inside the neurone is less than that outside of the neurone, and therefore negative. In summary, the resting membrane potential is negative due to the amounts (concentration) of positive and negative ions inside/outside of the cell, not the charge of the ions themselves.

CS
Answered by Chloe S. Biology tutor

3278 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Effect of pH on enzyme catalysed reaction


What is the role of Tropomyosin in myofibril contraction?


Explain what causes the conduction of impulses along a non-myelinated axon to be slower than along a myelinated axon.


Describe how the guard cells surrounding the leaf pores are adapted to their role


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences