An action potential cannot begin unless the membrane at the axon hillock (trigger zone) reaches a specific voltage known as the "threshold potential." This threshold is typically around -55 mV relative to the inside of the cell.

When the membrane potential reaches this threshold, voltage-gated ion channels open, leading to a rapid depolarization of the neuron as sodium ions (Na⁺) flow into the cell. This rapid change in membrane potential is what initiates the action potential, allowing for the transmission of electrical signals along the neuron.

The threshold level is crucial because it ensures that only sufficiently strong signals can trigger an action potential, thereby maintaining the integrity of the signal transmission process in the nervous system.

Question

An action potential cannot begin unless the membrane at the axon hillock (trigger zone) reaches a specific voltage known as the "threshold potential." This threshold is typically around -55 mV relative to the inside of the cell.

When the membrane potential reaches this threshold, voltage-gated ion channels open, leading to a rapid depolarization of the neuron as sodium ions (Na⁺) flow into the cell. This rapid change in membrane potential is what initiates the action potential, allowing for the transmission of electrical signals along the neuron.

The threshold level is crucial because it ensures that only sufficiently strong signals can trigger an action potential, thereby maintaining the integrity of the signal transmission process in the nervous system.

Knowee AI · Accepted Answer

An action potential cannot begin unless the membrane at the axon hillock (trigger zone) reaches a specific voltage known as the "threshold potential." This threshold is typically around -55 mV relative to the inside of the cell.

When the membrane potential reaches this threshold, voltage-gated ion channels open, leading to a rapid depolarization of the neuron as sodium ions (Na⁺) flow into the cell. This rapid change in membrane potential is what initiates the action potential, allowing for the transmission of electrical signals along the neuron.

The threshold level is crucial because it ensures that only sufficiently strong signals can trigger an action potential, thereby maintaining the integrity of the signal transmission process in the nervous system.

An action potential cannot begin unless the membrane at the axon hillock (trigger zone) reaches

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An action potential cannot begin unless the membrane at the axon hillock (trigger zone) reaches

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