Question

Explain why the resting membrane potential of a neuron is negative.

Answer 1

There is a higher concentration of potassium ions inside the neuron. 

Answer 2

At rest, potassium (K+) ions can move across the cell membrane easily.

At rest, chloride (Cl-) and sodium (Na+) ions cannot move across the membrane easily.

Negatively charged protein molecules that are inside the neuron cannot cross the membrane.

The total difference in voltage between the inside and outside of the cell at rest is negative.