Which term describes the rapid change in membrane potential when Na+ rushes into the cell during an impulse?

Prepare for the Anatomy and Physiology CFE Exam with our comprehensive quiz that covers key topics through flashcards and multiple choice questions. Study effectively and enhance your knowledge to succeed!

Multiple Choice

Which term describes the rapid change in membrane potential when Na+ rushes into the cell during an impulse?

Explanation:
Depolarization is the rapid change in membrane potential when Na+ rushes into the cell during an impulse. The influx of positively charged sodium ions makes the inside of the cell less negative (moving toward zero and often above it), triggering the action potential to propagate. Hyperpolarization would be a movement to a more negative value than the resting potential, usually after the spike due to continued K+ efflux. Repolarization is the process of returning toward the resting potential after depolarization, and resting potential is the stable, negative baseline when the neuron is not firing.

Depolarization is the rapid change in membrane potential when Na+ rushes into the cell during an impulse. The influx of positively charged sodium ions makes the inside of the cell less negative (moving toward zero and often above it), triggering the action potential to propagate.

Hyperpolarization would be a movement to a more negative value than the resting potential, usually after the spike due to continued K+ efflux. Repolarization is the process of returning toward the resting potential after depolarization, and resting potential is the stable, negative baseline when the neuron is not firing.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy