Multiple Choice
Which statement correctly describes what causes the second voltage-gated Na$^+$ channel to open during an action potential?
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45. Nervous System
Neurons and Action Potentials
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In the context of neurons and action potentials, what change in a neuron is typically measured on the y-axis of an action potential graph?
A
Number of synaptic vesicles
B
Membrane potential (mV)
C
Concentration of neurotransmitters
D
Rate of axonal transport
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context: An action potential graph represents the electrical activity of a neuron over time. The y-axis typically measures a variable that changes during the action potential process.
Recall the key concept: During an action potential, the electrical charge across the neuron's membrane changes due to the movement of ions (e.g., sodium and potassium) in and out of the cell.
Identify the variable: The y-axis of the graph measures the membrane potential, which is the difference in electrical charge across the neuron's membrane, typically expressed in millivolts (mV).
Eliminate incorrect options: The number of synaptic vesicles, concentration of neurotransmitters, and rate of axonal transport are not directly related to the electrical changes measured during an action potential.
Conclude: The correct variable measured on the y-axis of an action potential graph is the membrane potential (mV), as it reflects the electrical changes occurring during the action potential.
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