Impulse Transmission and Neuron Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to impulse transmission in neurons, including membrane properties, action potentials, and types of conduction.

Neuron Membrane

Cell membranes surrounding neurons consist of phospholipids and membrane proteins.

Facilitated Diffusion

The net movement of ions from regions of high concentration to regions of low concentration through specific protein channels.

Active Transport

A form of membrane transport that requires energy (ATP) to move ions against their concentration gradient.

Membrane Potential

The voltage difference across a neuron membrane created by unequal distribution of ions.

Resting Potential

The difference in electric potential across the membrane of a neuron at rest, typically around -70 mV.

Action Potential

A rapid reversal in charge of a neuron membrane that propagates as a nerve impulse.

Depolarization

The process of the membrane becoming less negative due to the influx of Na+ ions.

Repolarization

The process of restoring the membrane potential back to resting potential after depolarization.

Hyperpolarization

A brief period when the membrane potential becomes more negative than the resting potential.

Refractory Period

The time period during which a neuron cannot conduct another impulse after an action potential.

Saltatory Conduction

A form of action potential propagation where the impulse jumps from node to node along an axon wrapped in myelin.

All or Nothing Principle

A principle stating that a stimulus must reach a certain threshold to generate an action potential; below this, no impulse occurs.