QUESTION 3 Flashcards
Refractory period
Process in time in which a neuron cannot fire following an action potential
Equilibrium
Molecules and ions seek to distribute themselves evenly
Two ways resting potential is maintained
1) semi-permeability of membrane
2) sodium-potassium pump
Sodium-potassium pump
3 sodium ions out for every 2 potassium ions in
Depolarisation
when inside of cell becomes positive
Polarisation
inside of cell less positively charged than outside
What happens following stimulation reaching threshold
sodium gates open and the electrical difference results in an action potential
Propagation of action potential
action potential travelling along axon
Saltatory conduction
action potential jumping gaps if axon is myelinated
Why is action potential relevant
Multiple sclerosis
Where are myelin sheaths attacked in multiple sclerosis
brain, optic nerve, spinal cord
Implications of multiple sclerosis
weakness, lack of coordination and impaired speech and vision
