Which ion is primarily responsible for depolarization during an action potential

Practice Questions

Q1
Which ion is primarily responsible for depolarization during an action potential? (2023)
  1. Sodium (Na+)
  2. Potassium (K+)
  3. Calcium (Ca2+)
  4. Chloride (Cl-)

Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions

Which ion is primarily responsible for depolarization during an action potential? (2023)
  • Step 1: Understand what an action potential is. It is a rapid change in the electrical charge of a neuron.
  • Step 2: Know that neurons have a resting membrane potential, which is usually negative.
  • Step 3: During depolarization, the neuron needs to become less negative or more positive.
  • Step 4: Identify the ion that causes this change. It is sodium ions (Na+).
  • Step 5: When the neuron is stimulated, sodium channels open.
  • Step 6: Sodium ions (Na+) rush into the neuron through these open channels.
  • Step 7: The influx of sodium ions makes the inside of the neuron more positive.
  • Step 8: This change in charge is what we call depolarization.
No concepts available.
Soulshift Feedback ×

On a scale of 0–10, how likely are you to recommend The Soulshift Academy?

Not likely Very likely