What factors affect the speed at which an action potential travels?

There are several factors affecting the rate and speed of an action potential:

1. Myelin sheath - This covers some of the nodes and acts as an electrical insulator where the action potential travels from one node of ranvier to the next by saltatory conduction

2. Diameter of the axon - the larger the diameter of an axon increases the rate and speed of conductance as there is less leakage of ions.

3. Temperature - The higher the temperature the faster the conductance. This is because enzymes work faster at a high temperature which control the sodium-potassium pump needed to create action potentials.

Z(
Answered by Zartasht (Tashi) C. Biology tutor

96288 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is endosymbiosis and how does it relate to mitochondria?


How is the diffusion of gases between the alveoli and the alveolar blood vessels facilitated?


What is a condensation reaction?


I feel like I understand the concept, why I am I still not getting full marks on the question?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning