Asked by Chelsey Voegele on Jul 20, 2024
Verified
Compare and contrast the production and transmission of a graded potential with those of an action potential.
Graded Potential
A shift in electrical charge across a neuron's membrane, varying in magnitude, that can initiate an action potential if it reaches a threshold.
Action Potential
A rapid, temporary change in a membrane potential across a cell's membrane, leading to the transmission of nerve impulses.
- Acquire knowledge on the core principles of action potential transmission velocities and the influencing factors.
- Contrast the contributions of excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials to the modulation of neuronal activity.
Verified Answer
BA
Bensu AlsaçJul 20, 2024
Final Answer :
Both are alterations in the membrane that cause the membrane potential to vary from the resting state. A graded potential is a local response that is characteristic of all cells and that fades out within a few millimeters of its point of origin. It varies in magnitude depending on the strength of the stimulus, and it can be either excitatory or inhibitory. An action potential is generated only in neurons, muscle cells, and a few cells of the endocrine and immune systems. An action potential is generated when the membrane reaches its threshold level, and it is propagated at a constant rate and magnitude; that is, it does not vary with the strength of the stimulus.
Learning Objectives
- Acquire knowledge on the core principles of action potential transmission velocities and the influencing factors.
- Contrast the contributions of excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials to the modulation of neuronal activity.