What is saltatory conduction?

·   Myelin sheath is an insulating layer of fatty material, composed of Schwann cells wrapped tightly around the neurone.·   Sodium and potassium ions cannot diffuse through this fatty layer.·   In between the Schwann cells are small gaps- the nodes of Ranvier.·  Therefore, the ionic movements that create an action potential cannot occur over much of the length of the neurone: they occur only at the nodes of Ranvier.·   In myelinated neurones the local currents are therefore elongated and sodium ions diffuse along the neurone from one node of Ranvier to the next.· This means that the action potential appears to jump from one node to the next.·  This is called saltatory conduction.

Answered by Natalia S. Biology tutor

5388 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain how the proteins troponin, tropomyosin, actin and myosin regulate muscle contraction.


In the process of mitosis, which stages occur? Describe each stage.


How can donepezil improve communication between nerve cells?


Compare and contrast the features of eukaryotic DNA and RNA


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences