Knowee
Questions
Features
Study Tools

Which term refers to an event that activates a neuron and begins an action potential?Multiple choice question.StimulusRepolarizationThresholdDepolarization

Question

Which term refers to an event that activates a neuron and begins an action potential?

  • Stimulus
  • Repolarization
  • Threshold
  • Depolarization
🧐 Not the exact question you are looking for?Go ask a question

Solution

The correct term that refers to an event that activates a neuron and begins an action potential is Stimulus.

Explanation:

An action potential is a significant change in membrane potential that allows neurons to transmit signals. This process starts with a stimulus, which can be physical (like pressure or temperature) or chemical (like neurotransmitters). When a stimulus reaches a certain threshold, it triggers the depolarization of the neuron's membrane.

  1. Stimulus: This is any event that initiates the action potential by making the inside of the neuron less negative (more positive).
  2. Threshold: This refers to the electrical level that must be reached for the neuron to fire.
  3. Depolarization: This is the process that occurs after the threshold is reached, resulting in the rapid influx of sodium ions.
  4. Repolarization: This is the phase following depolarization, where the neuron returns to its resting membrane potential.

In summary, while terms such as threshold and depolarization are related to the process of action potential generation, it is the stimulus that first activates the neuron to begin this process.

This problem has been solved

Similar Questions

Which term refers to an event that activates a neuron and begins an action potential?Multiple choice question.StimulusRepolarizationThresholdDepolarization

A depolarization that happens in a sensory receptor on stimulation is known as a potential.

An excitatory local potential will make the neuron Blank______ likely to generate a nerve impulse.Multiple choice question.moreless

Fill in the Blank QuestionFill in the blank question.A rapid, automatic response to a stimulus is called a(n) .

If a stimulus causes impulse conduction (potentials) through all parts of a neuron,, the correct pathway for that conduction is:

1/3

Upgrade your grade with Knowee

Get personalized homework help. Review tough concepts in more detail, or go deeper into your topic by exploring other relevant questions.