Action Potentials and Neural Conduction

Flashcards covering key concepts related to action potentials, their propagation, and refractory periods in neurons.

Action Potentials

Rapid changes in membrane potential that propagate along axons due to depolarization.

Refractory Period

A period during which a neuron is unable to fire another action potential.

Absolute Refractory Period

The time during which no stimulus can trigger another action potential, lasting about 1ms.

Relative Refractory Period

The time during which a stronger-than-usual stimulus is needed to trigger another action potential, lasting 2-4ms.

Sodium Channels

Channels that allow Na+ ions to enter the neuron, crucial for action potential generation.

Propagate

To transmit or spread action potentials along the length of the axon.

Saltatory Conduction

The process by which action potentials jump from node to node along myelinated axons, increasing conduction speed.

Nodes of Ranvier

Gaps in the myelin sheath where ion channels are located, allowing for regeneration of action potentials.

Depolarization

The process of the membrane potential becoming less negative, often leading to the generation of an action potential.

Hyperpolarization

An increase in membrane potential, resulting in the inside of the cell becoming more negative than the resting potential.