A progressive rise in receptor potential (becomes less negative) of a typical mechanoreceptor is most likely to have which of the following effects on the frequency of action potentials in the axon from that mechanoreceptor?
A)Proportional decrease
B)Proportional increase
C)No change
D)Tenfold decrease
E)Tenfold increase

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A progressive rise in receptor potential means the stimulus is getting stronger. As the stimulus gets stronger, the mechanoreceptor will depolarize more, which will lead to an increase in the frequency of action potentials in the axon of that mechanoreceptor. This relationship is known as the "recruitment" of action potentials. Therefore, an increase in receptor potential will lead to a proportional increase in the frequency of action potentials in the axon.

A Progressive Rise in Receptor Potential (Becomes Less Negative) of a Typical