Action Potentials

Question 1

What are the nerve impulses called that neurons send

Answer 1

Action potentials

Question 2

What is the first stage of an action potential ?

Answer 2

If the threshold is reached an action potential is triggered . This opens na+ channels and depolarisation occurs which is where the cell becomes more positively charged on the inside than out

Question 3

What is the second stage of action all potential

Answer 3

At the peak voltage of around+40mv, na+ channels close and voltage gated k+ channels open. Ions diffuse out causing repolarisation of the cell.

Question 4

What is the third stage in an action potential

Answer 4

This causes hypolarisation of the neuron more k+ ions are on the outside than na+ ions are on the inside

Question 5

What is the fourth stage of action potential

Answer 5

A refractory period allows sodium potassium pump to return k+ ions to the inside and na+ ions are on the outside, returning g the neuron to its normal polarised state