What are the advantages of saltatory conduction?

· The myelin sheath means that action potentials can occur only at the gaps between the Schwann cells that make up the myelin sheath.· Effectively the action potential jumps from one node of Ranvier to the next.· This speeds up the transmission of the action potential along the neurone.· Myelinated neurones conduct action potentials more quickly than non-myelinated neurones.· A myelinated neurone can conduct an action potential at up to 120 ms-1.

Answered by Natalia S. Biology tutor

8350 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the main function of the Schwann cell?


How do I work out the magnification of an image?


Describe the cardiac cycle, including the role that valves and pressure differences play in this process.


Describe, using the fluid mosaic model, the structure of the cell membrane in animal cells.


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