The depolarization phase of an action potential is punctuated by the closing of inactivation gates in the voltage gated sodium ion channels. All of the following are consequences of thisinactivation except one. Choose the statement below that is not a consequence of the closing of inactivating gates.
A) This stops the depolarization of the axon membrane.
B) This limits the frequency of action potentials down the axon.
C) This allows for the efflux (diffusion out) of potassium ions, resulting in the repolarization of the cell.
D) This allows for the one way transmission of action potential down the axon.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The closing of inactivation gates in voltage-gated sodium channels stops sodium ions from entering the cell, which stops depolarization. It does not directly cause potassium ions to efflux; potassium efflux is caused by the opening of voltage-gated potassium channels, which repolarizes the cell.

The Depolarization Phase of an Action Potential Is Punctuated by the Closing