What determines whether a neuron has an action potential?
A) Only the number of EPSPs impinging on an axon
B) Only the number of IPSPs impinging on the dendrites
C) The combined effects of EPSPs and IPSPs
D) Summation effects of IPSPs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The combined effects of excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) determine whether a neuron reaches the threshold for an action potential. If the sum of EPSPs exceeds the sum of IPSPs, the neuron is more likely to fire an action potential. If the sum of IPSPs exceeds the sum of EPSPs or there is no net change, the neuron is less likely to fire an action potential.

What Determines Whether a Neuron Has an Action Potential