Describe the sequence of events that lead to the generation of an action potential

1 - Stimulus excites the neurone cell membrane, causing sodium ion channels to open, so sodium ions diffuse into the neurone, making it less negative. This depolarises the inside of the membrane.2 - Depolarisation - If the potential difference reaches the threshold, more sodium ion channels open so more sodium ions diffuse into the neurone.3 - Repolarisation - Once the potential difference increases so much, the sodium ion channels close and potassium ions channels open, allowing potassium ions to diffuse out of the membrane, reducing the membrane potential.4 - Hyperpolarisation - Potassium ion channels are slow to close so membrane potential becomes more negative than the resting potential.5 - Resting potential - The ion channels are reset, so the sodium-potassium pump returns the membrane to its resting potential.

Answered by Matthew T. Biology tutor

4916 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would you explain oxidative phosphorylation and chemiosmosis?


How does an atheroma increase the risk of death?


Why is it that an action potential only travels in one direction?


Explain how the DNA of a Eukaryote is replicated


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