To function properly, a neuron must maintain a
a. membrane potential
b. neurotransmitter
c. negative charge on the inside
d. positive charge on the inside
Thank you so much!
To function properly, a neuron must maintain a membrane potential. This is the electrical charge difference across the neuronal cell membrane. The inside of the cell is negatively charged compared to the outside. Therefore, the correct answer is option a. membrane potential.
To determine the correct answer, let's break down each option and explore the concept of neuron functioning.
a. Membrane potential: A neuron's membrane potential refers to the difference in electrical charge between the inside and outside of the neuron. This potential is created by ions, such as sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), and chloride (Cl-) ions. When a neuron is at rest, it has a resting membrane potential, typically around -70 millivolts (mV). So, this option is a possible answer.
b. Neurotransmitter: Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released by neurons at the synapse (the gap or junction between two neurons). They transmit signals from one neuron to another, allowing for communication within the nervous system. While essential for neuronal communication, neurotransmitters are not directly related to maintaining a neuron's functioning. Hence, this option is not the correct answer.
c. Negative charge on the inside: This option refers to the resting membrane potential of a neuron. As mentioned earlier, a neuron at rest has a negative charge on the inside compared to the outside. This difference in charge is crucial for proper neuronal functioning. Therefore, this option is a potential answer.
d. Positive charge on the inside: This option is incorrect. Neurons have a negative charge on the inside when at rest, not a positive charge.
Based on the information provided, the correct answer is either a. membrane potential or c. negative charge on the inside. Both options accurately describe the essential requirement for a neuron to function properly.
From Google:
Nerve impulses are the basic currency of the brain. They allow neurons to communicate with each other, computations to be performed, and information to be processed. When a neuron spikes it releases a neurotransmitter, a chemical that travels a tiny distance across a synapse before reaching other neurons