Suppose both excitatory and inhibitory neurons synapse with a single postsynaptic neuron.What determines if an action potential is initiated in the postsynaptic neuron?
A)the kind of neuron involved
B)the size of the neuron involved
C)whether the neuron is myelinated or non-myelinated
D)the number of EPSPs in relation to the number of IPSPs
E)This situation is not possible in humans.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The number of EPSPs (excitatory postsynaptic potentials) in relation to the number of IPSPs (inhibitory postsynaptic potentials) is what determines if an action potential is initiated in the postsynaptic neuron. If the number of EPSPs is greater than the number of IPSPs, the neuron is more likely to reach its threshold and generate an action potential. Conversely, if the number of IPSPs is greater, the neuron is less likely to reach threshold and fire an action potential.

Suppose Both Excitatory and Inhibitory Neurons Synapse with a Single