Question

in a series of measurements of resting membrane potentials, the following values were recorded. which one is likeliest to be an error?
-40 mv
+100 mv
-20 mv
-70 mv
-10 mv

Explanation:

Step1: Recall resting membrane potential

Resting membrane potential (RMP) of most cells (especially neurons and muscle cells) is negative, ranging from -10 mV to -90 mV (e.g., neurons ~ -70 mV, some cells like smooth muscle ~ -40 mV, etc.). Positive RMP is unusual.

Step2: Analyze each option

• -40 mV: Possible (e.g., some cells).
• +100 mV: Positive, not typical for resting membrane potential.
• -20 mV: Possible (e.g., some cells).
• -70 mV: Typical for neurons.
• -10 mV: Possible (e.g., some cells).

Answer:

+100 mV (the option with +100 mV is the error)