At resting membrane potential, voltage-gated potassium ion channels are open.4-25-2013Group startsTrue or FalseTrue, unselectedFalse, unselected

Understanding Resting Membrane Potential

1. Definition of Resting Membrane Potential: The resting membrane potential of a neuron is typically around -70 mV, which is the electrical charge difference across the neuron's membrane when it is not actively firing an action potential.

2. Role of Ion Channels: At resting potential, certain ion channels, including potassium (K⁺) ion channels, play a crucial role in maintaining the membrane potential. Specifically, most of the voltage-gated potassium channels are closed at this state.

3. State of Voltage-Gated Channels:

   • Voltage-gated potassium channels open in response to depolarization during an action potential, allowing K⁺ ions to flow out of the cell, which contributes to repolarizing the membrane.
   • At resting potential, these channels are predominantly in a closed state, preventing significant potassium ion movement across the membrane.

Final Answer

False: At resting membrane potential, voltage-gated potassium ion channels are typically closed, not open.