Intermediate
Technical
IVT
resting potential
The stable electrical charge across a neuron's membrane when the cell is not actively signaling.
Full Definition
Resting potential is the electrical potential difference across the plasma membrane of a neuron when it is not actively transmitting signals, typically around -70 millivolts in mammalian neurons. This negative charge is maintained by the sodium-potassium pump and selective membrane permeability to different ions. The resting potential provides the electrochemical foundation necessary for generating action potentials and is essential for normal neuronal function.
In Context
- "The diseased neurons showed abnormally depolarized resting potentials compared to controls." — electrophysiology study
- "Potassium channel blockers significantly altered the resting potential in cultured neurons." — pharmacology experiment
Contrasted with
action potential
depolarization
Don't confuse with
reversal potential
threshold potential