What is the resting membrane potential of an unstimulated axon?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the value of the resting membrane potential in an unstimulated axon, which refers to the electrical charge difference across the neuronal membrane at rest.
Answer
-70 mV
The resting membrane potential of an unstimulated axon is typically around -70 mV.
Answer for screen readers
The resting membrane potential of an unstimulated axon is typically around -70 mV.
More Information
The resting membrane potential is the electrical potential difference across the neuronal membrane when the neuron is not active. This potential is generated due to the distribution of ions such as potassium (K+) and sodium (Na+) across the membrane, with the inside of the neuron being more negatively charged.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming the potential is 0 mV, but in reality, it is negative due to the net negative charge inside the neuron.
Sources
- Physiology, Resting Potential - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- The membrane potential - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
- Resting Membrane Potential | Biology for Majors II - courses.lumenlearning.com
