Action potentials are quick changes in the electrical charge of a cell's membrane that start communication between nerves. Here are some important points about action potentials:
Resting Membrane Potential: Normally, the cell sits at about -70 mV. This is kept steady by a pump that moves 3 sodium (Na+) ions out of the cell for every 2 potassium (K+) ions it brings in.
Threshold Potential: This is around -55 mV. An action potential begins when the cell reaches this level.
Upstroke Phase: When the cell reaches the threshold, special channels for Na+ open up. This causes the cell to become more positive, peaking at about +30 mV.
Repolarization: After reaching its peak, the cell needs to get back to its resting state. Channels for K+ open up to help return the membrane to its negative charge.
Research shows that a typical nerve cell can send out around 100 to 200 action potentials every second!
Action potentials are quick changes in the electrical charge of a cell's membrane that start communication between nerves. Here are some important points about action potentials:
Resting Membrane Potential: Normally, the cell sits at about -70 mV. This is kept steady by a pump that moves 3 sodium (Na+) ions out of the cell for every 2 potassium (K+) ions it brings in.
Threshold Potential: This is around -55 mV. An action potential begins when the cell reaches this level.
Upstroke Phase: When the cell reaches the threshold, special channels for Na+ open up. This causes the cell to become more positive, peaking at about +30 mV.
Repolarization: After reaching its peak, the cell needs to get back to its resting state. Channels for K+ open up to help return the membrane to its negative charge.
Research shows that a typical nerve cell can send out around 100 to 200 action potentials every second!