Which of the following describes the excitatory postsynaptic potential?
A) short distance depolarization
B) opens K+ or Cl- channels
C) moves membrane potential away from threshold
D) short distance hyperpolarization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) is a short distance depolarization that moves the membrane potential closer to threshold and makes it more likely for an action potential to occur. Choice A accurately describes this phenomenon. Choice B is incorrect because opening K+ or Cl- channels would cause hyperpolarization, not depolarization. Choice C is also incorrect because EPSPs move the membrane potential towards threshold, not away from it. Choice D describes the inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP), which is a short distance hyperpolarization that moves the membrane potential farther away from threshold and makes it less likely for an action potential to occur.

Which of the Following Describes the Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential