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Assuming one nerve impulse must end before another can begin, what is the maximum firing rate of a nerve in impulses per second?

Question

Assuming one nerve impulse must end before another can begin, what is the maximum firing rate of a nerve in impulses per second?

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Solution

The maximum firing rate of a nerve in impulses per second, also known as the firing frequency, can vary depending on the type of neuron. However, a commonly cited maximum firing rate for neurons is around 1000 Hz or 1000 impulses per second.

Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

  1. The duration of one nerve impulse, also known as an action potential, is approximately 1 millisecond (ms). This includes the time for depolarization, repolarization, and the refractory period during which a new action potential cannot be initiated.

  2. Given that 1 second is equal to 1000 milliseconds, if each nerve impulse lasts for 1 millisecond, then the maximum number of impulses that can occur in one second is 1000.

  3. Therefore, assuming one nerve impulse must end before another can begin, the maximum firing rate of a nerve would be 1000 impulses per second or 1000 Hz.

It's important to note that this is a theoretical maximum. In practice, neurons fire at varying rates depending on many factors, including the type of neuron and the strength of the stimulus.

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