Outline how nerve impulses are transmitted along a nerve fibre.

1. Sodium (voltage-gated) channels open and Nadiffuse into neuron (down concentration gradient).

2. Inside of neuron becomes positive compared to the outside, so potential is reversed = depolarization.

3. Wave of depolarization moves down the membrane.

4. Potassium channels open and Kdiffuse out down the concentration gradient.

5. Inside becomes negative compared with outside, potential across membrane restored = repolarization.

6. Active transport K(into neuron) and Na(out of neuron) restores resting potential.

Answered by Paulina W. Biology tutor

11345 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What are the differences between aerobic and anaerobic respiration in animals?


How are the different types of blood vessel adapted to their function in the circulatory system?


What is the function of a neurone?


Which muscles in the gut wall are involved in peristalsis?


We're here to help

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