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

Change in Membrane Potential

Anatomy & Physiology

11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System

Change in Membrane Potential

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following would be likely to cause depolarization of a neuron?

Closing of calcium channels

Opening of chloride channels

Opening of potassium channels

Opening of sodium channels

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of depolarization: Depolarization is a change in a cell's membrane potential, making it more positive. In neurons, this is typically the initial phase of an action potential.

Identify the role of sodium channels: Sodium ions (Na+) are positively charged. When sodium channels open, Na+ flows into the neuron due to the concentration gradient and electrical gradient, making the inside of the neuron more positive.

Consider the effect of opening sodium channels: Opening sodium channels allows Na+ to enter the neuron, which increases the positive charge inside the cell, leading to depolarization.

Evaluate the other options: Closing calcium channels would not directly cause depolarization. Opening chloride channels would typically cause hyperpolarization, as Cl- ions are negatively charged. Opening potassium channels usually leads to hyperpolarization, as K+ ions exit the cell.

Conclude that opening sodium channels is the most likely cause of depolarization, as it directly increases the positive charge inside the neuron, moving the membrane potential towards the threshold for an action potential.