Question

The major determinant of the resting potential of all cells is

A. Ca2+ concentration in the blood and interstitial fluid.

B. Na+ concentration in the blood and interstitial fluid.

C. K+ gradient between the blood and interstitial fluid.

D. K+ concentration inside cells.

E. Na+ concentration inside cells.

Answer 1

The major determinant of the resting potential of all cells is K+ concentration inside cells. Sodium tends to move into the cell, while potassium tends to move out of the cell.

Step-by-step explanation:

The major determinant of the resting potential of all cells is K+ concentration inside cells. In the resting state, Sodium (Na+) is at higher concentrations outside the cell, so it tends to move into the cell. Conversely, Potassium (K+) is more concentrated inside the cell and tends to move out of the cell. This concentration gradient, combined with the electrical charge difference across the cell membrane, creates an electrochemical gradient that determines the resting potential.