Generator Potential

Question 1

How is a generator potential created?

Answer 1

• Initial opening of Na+ channels

Question 2

What happens at generator potential?

Answer 2

• Na+ channels open
• cell becomes slightly more positive

Question 3

What happens if the stimulus is STRONG?

Answer 3

• if the stimulus is STRONG enough - the generator potential can turn into an action potential as more Na+ channels open
• for this to occur, depolarisation must reach as threshold potential (-50mV)

Question 4

What happens if the stimulus is WEAK?

Answer 4

• if the stimulus is WEAK, not enough Na+ channels will open to depolarise the membrane to reach the threshold potential and an action potential will not be generated and the cell returns to resting potential again.