The absolute refractory period ends when
A)inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ ion channels reopen.
B)activation gates of voltage-gates Na+ ion channels reopen.
C)the sodium-potassium exchange pump stops.
D)voltage-gated K+ channels open.
E)None of these choices is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The absolute refractory period is the time period during which an action potential cannot be initiated in a neuron, regardless of the strength of the stimulus. This is caused by the inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ ion channels being closed, which prevents additional Na+ ions from entering the cell and depolarizing it further. The absolute refractory period ends when the inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ ion channels reopen, allowing the neuron to become depolarized again and generate a new action potential.

The Absolute Refractory Period Ends When