nerve impulse: Resting Potential, Threshold, Action Potential , Depolarization, Repolarization Flashcards
What is the resting potential of a neuron?
The resting potential of a neuron is typically around -70 mV.
True or False: The resting potential is the state when a neuron is actively transmitting an impulse.
False
What ion is primarily responsible for maintaining the resting potential?
Potassium (K+)
Fill in the blank: The threshold potential is usually around _____ mV.
-55 mV
What happens when the threshold potential is reached?
An action potential is triggered.
True or False: Depolarization involves the influx of sodium ions (Na+).
True
What is depolarization?
Depolarization is the process where the membrane potential becomes less negative (more positive).
During an action potential, what is the maximum membrane potential typically reached?
Around +30 mV.
What occurs during repolarization?
The membrane potential returns to a more negative value after depolarization.
Which ion channels open first during depolarization?
Sodium (Na+) channels.
Fill in the blank: After repolarization, the membrane may experience a brief period called _____.
hyperpolarization
True or False: Hyperpolarization makes a neuron more likely to fire an action potential.
False
What is the role of the sodium-potassium pump?
To maintain the resting potential by moving Na+ out and K+ into the cell.
True or False: An action potential is an all-or-nothing response.
True
What is the refractory period?
The time during which a neuron cannot fire another action potential.
Fill in the blank: The rapid change in membrane potential during an action potential is primarily due to the movement of _____ ions.
sodium (Na+)
What is the sequence of events during an action potential?
Depolarization, repolarization, and hyperpolarization.
What role do voltage-gated ion channels play in action potentials?
They open or close in response to changes in membrane potential, allowing ion flow.
Fill in the blank: The resting potential is maintained by the _____ of ions across the membrane.
differential distribution
What happens during the overshoot phase of an action potential?
The membrane potential becomes positive.
What is the function of myelin sheaths?
To insulate axons and increase the speed of action potential conduction.
True or False: Action potentials can vary in size.
False
What is the effect of a stronger stimulus on action potential generation?
It increases the frequency of action potentials, not their size.
What is the significance of the threshold potential?
It is the critical level to which a membrane potential must be depolarized to initiate an action potential.