Excitatory postsynaptic potentials are caused by _______ channels opening, while inhibitory postsynaptic potentials are caused by _______ channels opening. A) Na⁺; Cl^- or K⁺ B) K⁺; Cl^- or Na⁺ C) Ca²⁺; K⁺ or Cl^- D) Cl^-; K⁺ or Ca²⁺

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) are typically caused by the opening of sodium (Na+) channels, which allows Na+ ions to enter the neuron, making the inside more positive and thus closer to the threshold for firing an action potential. Inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) are usually caused by the opening of chloride (Cl-) channels (allowing Cl- ions to enter the cell and make it more negative, moving it away from the threshold) or potassium (K+) channels (allowing K+ to exit the cell, also making it more negative).

Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials Are Caused by _______ Channels Opening, While