Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Graded Potentials

Anatomy & Physiology

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Graded Potentials

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Problem 21

Textbook Question

What is the difference between temporal summation and spatial summation?

Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of summation in the nervous system: Summation refers to the process by which multiple stimuli combine to produce a response in a neuron. This occurs at the axon hillock, where the neuron decides whether to fire an action potential based on the combined input.

Define temporal summation: Temporal summation occurs when a single presynaptic neuron releases neurotransmitters repeatedly over a short period of time. The successive signals add up, increasing the likelihood of reaching the threshold for an action potential.

Define spatial summation: Spatial summation occurs when multiple presynaptic neurons release neurotransmitters simultaneously at different locations on the postsynaptic neuron. The combined input from these neurons can lead to the generation of an action potential if the threshold is reached.

Compare the two types of summation: Temporal summation depends on the timing of signals from one neuron, while spatial summation depends on the number and location of signals from multiple neurons. Both processes contribute to the integration of signals in the nervous system.

Relate summation to physiological function: Summation is crucial for processing information in the nervous system, allowing neurons to integrate multiple signals and respond appropriately. This mechanism is essential for complex functions like sensory perception and motor control.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Temporal Summation

Temporal summation refers to the process by which multiple excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) occur at the same synapse in rapid succession. If these potentials arrive close enough in time, they can combine to produce a larger overall depolarization of the postsynaptic neuron. This mechanism is crucial for understanding how neurons integrate signals over time, influencing their firing patterns.

Spatial Summation

Spatial summation involves the simultaneous activation of multiple synapses on a postsynaptic neuron. When several presynaptic neurons release neurotransmitters at different locations on the same neuron, their combined effects can lead to a significant depolarization. This concept highlights how the spatial arrangement of synaptic inputs can affect neuronal excitability and decision-making in neural circuits.

Neuronal Integration

Neuronal integration is the process by which a neuron combines multiple synaptic inputs to determine whether to generate an action potential. Both temporal and spatial summation are key mechanisms of integration, allowing neurons to process complex information from various sources. Understanding this concept is essential for grasping how neural networks function and respond to stimuli.

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Related Practice

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is not true of graded potentials?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following statements is most accurate concerning graded potentials?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following statements about graded potentials is correct?

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Textbook Question

An IPSP is inhibitory because

a. It hyperpolarizes the postsynaptic membrane.

b. It reduces the amount of neurotransmitter released by the presynaptic terminal.

c. It prevents calcium ion entry into the presynaptic terminal.

d. It changes the threshold of the neuron.

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Multiple Choice

A graded potential is strongest at the __________:

An excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) is __________.

When a second EPSP arrives at a single synapse before the effects of the first have disappeared, what results?

The EPSPs from two different synapses occur at the same time and cause a larger depolarization than either one alone can cause. This is an example of:

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