15.4 speed of nerve impulse

Question 1

factors affecting speed at which an action potential travels

Answer 1

-myselin sheath
-diameter of axon
-temperature

Question 2

myelin sheath

Answer 2

prevents an action potential forming in part of the axon covered in myelin. creates saltatory conduction

Question 3

diameter of the axon

Answer 3

the greater the diameter of an axon, the faster the speed of conductance

Question 4

temperature

Answer 4

affects rate of diffusion so higher the temp, the faster the nerve impulse

Question 5

all or nothing principle

Answer 5

below the threshold, there is no action potential generated- so no impulse