Exam 2: Electrical Properties of Neurons & Action Potentials

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to the electrical properties of neurons and action potentials as outlined in the BCMB 415 lecture notes.

Membrane Potential

The electrical potential difference across the neuronal membrane that reflects the distribution of positive and negative charges (ions) on each side.

Action Potential

A transient and large depolarization of the membrane that propagates along the axon, conveying information over long distances.

Graded Potential

A change in membrane potential that varies continuously in magnitude, typically occurring at the synapses.

Receptor Potential

Changes in resting membrane potential due to activation of sensory neurons by external stimuli.

Nernst Equation

A mathematical formula used to calculate the equilibrium potential for an ion based on its concentration gradient across a membrane.

Resting Membrane Potential

The typical membrane potential of a neuron when it is not actively transmitting signals, ranging from -50mV to -80mV.

Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz Equation

An equation used to calculate the resting membrane potential when the membrane is simultaneously permeable to multiple ions.

Driving Force

The difference between the membrane potential and the equilibrium potential for a particular ion, influencing ion movement across the membrane.

Active Transport

The process that maintains ion concentrations across the neuronal membrane, using energy to move ions against their electrochemical gradients.

All or None Principle

The concept that once a neuronal membrane depolarization exceeds the threshold, an action potential will occur with uniform amplitude.