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

Propagation of Action Potentials

Anatomy & Physiology

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Propagation of Action Potentials

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Multiple Choice

What ensures the one-way propagation of action potentials along an axon?

The refractory period of the axon membrane

The presence of synaptic vesicles

The diameter of the axon

The myelination of the axon

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of an action potential: An action potential is a rapid rise and subsequent fall in voltage or membrane potential across a cellular membrane, typically in neurons.

Learn about the refractory period: The refractory period is a period immediately following the transmission of an action potential during which a neuron is unable to fire another action potential. This is due to the inactivation of sodium channels and the opening of potassium channels.

Explore how the refractory period affects action potential propagation: The refractory period ensures that the action potential can only move in one direction along the axon, preventing it from traveling backward.

Consider the role of synaptic vesicles, axon diameter, and myelination: Synaptic vesicles are involved in neurotransmitter release at synapses, not directly in action potential propagation. Axon diameter and myelination affect the speed of action potential conduction but not the direction.

Conclude that the refractory period is the key factor: The refractory period of the axon membrane is what ensures the one-way propagation of action potentials along an axon, as it prevents the reactivation of the action potential in the reverse direction.