Which of the following statements about the refractory period of a membrane is true?
A)The absolute refractory period refers to the period of time during which another action potential cannot be initiated in that part of the membrane that is undergoing an action potential,no matter how great the strength of the stimulus.
B)The relative refractory period refers to the period of time during which another action potential can be initiated in that part of the membrane that has just undergone an action potential if a stronger than normal stimulus is applied.
C)The refractory period prevents the action potential from spreading back over the part of the membrane that just underwent an action potential.
D)The refractory period places an upper limit on the frequency with which a nerve cell can conduct action potentials.
E)All of the above choices are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of the statements about the refractory period of a membrane are true. The absolute refractory period prevents the membrane from generating another action potential, regardless of stimulus strength. The relative refractory period allows for the initiation of another action potential if a strong enough stimulus is applied. The refractory period also prevents the action potential from spreading back over the just-excited membrane, and places a limit on the frequency with which a nerve cell can conduct action potentials.

Which of the Following Statements About the Refractory Period of a Membrane