If a hyperpolarizing graded potential and a depolarizing graded potential of similar magnitudes arrive at the trigger zone at the same time, what is most likely to occur?
A) An action potential is fired off more quickly than usual.
B) Nothing. They will cancel each other out.
C) The cell becomes hyperpolarized.
D) The cell becomes easier to excite.
E) The cell dies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a hyperpolarizing graded potential and a depolarizing graded potential of similar magnitudes arrive at the trigger zone simultaneously, they tend to cancel each other out, resulting in no significant change in the membrane potential. This is because the depolarizing potential attempts to make the cell's interior more positive, while the hyperpolarizing potential does the opposite, making the cell's interior more negative.

If a Hyperpolarizing Graded Potential and a Depolarizing Graded Potential