Question

When the neuron is at rest, what is primarily responsible for moving potassium ions OUT of the cell?

Answer 1

When the neuron is at rest, what is primarily responsible for moving potassium ions OUT of the cell?

a concentration gradient

an electrical gradient

both a concentration gradient and an electrical gradient

the sodium-potassium pump

Answer:

a concentration gradient

Explanation:

At rest, the sodium-potassium pumps pump the two potassium ions into the cell for three Na ions moved out of the cell. This creates a higher potassium concentration gradient inside the cell. This concentration gradient moves the K+ out of the cell. Movement of positively charged K+ out of the cells make the inside of the membrane negative with respect to the outside. This is how the negative resting potential is maintained when neurons are nor firing the action potential.