Nerve Signals

These flashcards focus on the key concepts of nerve signals and neuronal function as discussed in the lecture notes.

Nerve Signals

Electrical impulses that transmit information through the nervous system.

Neurons

Cells that transmit nerve signals.

Polarized

A state where the inside of the cell is more negatively charged compared to the outside.

Resting Potential

The electrical potential difference across a neuron's membrane when it is not actively transmitting a signal.

Sodium (Na+)

An ion that is abundant outside the cell and contributes to the action potential when channels open.

Potassium (K+)

An ion found at higher concentrations inside the cell that influences the resting potential.

Action Potential

A rapid change in the electrical potential across the membrane of a neuron, leading to the propagation of a nerve signal.

Channel Opening Stimuli

Factors that cause ion channels to open, allowing ions to flow and initiate an electrical current.