Question

on average, the resting membrane potential is -70 mv. what does the sign and magnitude of this value tell you? the inside surface of the plasma membrane is much more positively charged than the outside surface. the outside surface of the plasma membrane is much more negatively charged than the inside surface. there is no electrical potential difference between the inside and the outside surfaces of the plasma membrane. the inside surface of the plasma membrane is much more negatively charged than the outside surface.

Explanation:

The resting membrane potential is measured as the potential difference between the inside and outside of the cell membrane. A negative value ( - 70 mV) indicates that the inside of the plasma membrane is more negatively charged relative to the outside. The first option is incorrect as a negative potential means inside is not more positive. The second option is wrong because the outside is more positive (so less negative) than the inside. The third option is incorrect as a non - zero potential (-70 mV) shows there is a potential difference. The fourth option correctly states that the inside surface of the plasma membrane is much more negatively charged than the outside surface.

Answer:

D. The inside surface of the plasma membrane is much more negatively charged than the outside surface.