Suppose that the plasma membrane of a neuron has more Na leakage channels

than K leakage channels. What effect would this have on the resting membrane
potential?
A resting neuron has a voltage across its membrane called the resting membrane
potential. It is determined by the concentration gradients of ions across the membrane and by
membrane permeability to each type of ion. Some ion channels are highly selective for one type
of ion, but others let various kinds of ions pass through. If the ion channels mainly allow K to
pass, they are called potassium channels and if the ion channels mainly allow Na to pass, they
are called sodium channels.

If the plasma membrane of a neuron has more Na leakage channels than K leakage
channels, then more Na+ ions would leak into the cell and fewer K+ ions would leak out of the
cell. Therefore, making the resting membrane potential more positive.

Reference

RMP: Theory. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2022, from

https://www.medicine.mcgill.ca/physio/vlab/rmp/theory_RMP_n.htm

Khan Academy. (n.d.). Membrane potential (resting membrane potential) (article). Khan
Academy. Retrieved February 18, 2022, from
https://www.khanacademy.org/science/biology/human-biology/neuron-nervous-system/a/the-
membrane-potential