RMP in psychology stands for resting membrane potential. It refers to the electrical potential difference across the cell membrane of a neuron or muscle cell when it is at rest, meaning not actively transmitting a signal.
Understanding Resting Membrane Potential
The inside of a neuron is typically negatively charged compared to the outside. This difference in charge is maintained by the movement of ions across the cell membrane.
The resting membrane potential is crucial for the proper functioning of neurons. It allows neurons to generate and propagate action potentials, the electrical signals that transmit information throughout the nervous system.
Factors Affecting Resting Membrane Potential
Sodium-potassium pump: This active transport mechanism pumps sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, contributing to the negative charge inside the neuron.
Ion channels: These channels allow specific ions to pass through the cell membrane, influencing the electrical potential.
Cell membrane permeability: The permeability of the cell membrane to different ions can affect the resting membrane potential.
Importance of Resting Membrane Potential
Neural communication: A stable resting membrane potential is essential for neurons to respond to stimuli and transmit signals.
Muscle contraction: In muscle cells, the resting membrane potential is crucial for initiating muscle contractions.
Maintaining cell homeostasis: The resting membrane potential helps maintain the proper balance of ions and other molecules within the cell.
Examples
The typical resting membrane potential of a neuron is around -70 millivolts (mV).
Changes in the resting membrane potential can occur due to factors such as neurotransmitter release or changes in ion concentrations.
