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

Which of the following increases the speed of action potential propagation down the axon?

Higher concentration of sodium ions outside the neuron

Increased number of synapses

Myelination of the axon

Increased axon diameter

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of action potential propagation: Action potentials are electrical signals that travel along the axon of a neuron. The speed of this propagation can be influenced by several factors.

Consider the role of myelination: Myelin is a fatty substance that wraps around the axon, forming an insulating layer. This insulation allows the action potential to jump between gaps in the myelin sheath, known as nodes of Ranvier, in a process called saltatory conduction.

Evaluate the effect of myelination: Myelination significantly increases the speed of action potential propagation because it reduces the amount of axon membrane that needs to be depolarized, allowing the signal to travel faster.

Compare with other factors: While a higher concentration of sodium ions outside the neuron is necessary for action potential generation, it does not directly increase propagation speed. Similarly, an increased number of synapses can actually slow down signal transmission due to synaptic delay.

Consider axon diameter: An increased axon diameter can also increase the speed of action potential propagation by reducing the internal resistance to the flow of ions. However, myelination has a more pronounced effect on increasing speed.