shift in the membrane potential towards a less negative value is called a Blank______.Multiple choice question.depolarizationhyperpolarizationrepolarization

Break Down the Problem

1. Identify the key terms in the question.
2. Determine the meanings of the multiple-choice options: depolarization, hyperpolarization, and repolarization.
3. Select the correct term that describes a shift in membrane potential towards a less negative value.

Relevant Concepts

1. Depolarization: This is the process where the membrane potential becomes less negative (or more positive) than the resting membrane potential.
2. Hyperpolarization: This refers to an increase in the negativity of the membrane potential, making it more negative than the resting potential.
3. Repolarization: This is the process of returning the membrane potential back to its resting state following depolarization.

Analysis and Detail

• A less negative membrane potential indicates that the inside of the cell is becoming more positive relative to outside.
• This is primarily due to the influx of positively charged ions (like Na⁺) or the reduction of negatively charged ions.

Verify and Summarize

From the definitions and analysis, depolarization is the correct process that describes a shift towards a less negative value in membrane potential.

Final Answer

The answer is depolarization.