When recording from a single neuron, stimulus intensity is represented by the
A) size of the action potentials.
B) size of the synapse.
C) firing rate of the neurotransmitters.
D) firing rate of the action potentials.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The firing rate of the action potentials is the most direct representation of the stimulus intensity when recording from a single neuron. As the stimulus intensity increases, the neuron will fire more action potentials per unit of time, resulting in a higher firing rate. The size of the action potentials may vary based on other factors, such as the diameter of the axon or the specific ion channels involved in generating the action potential, but it is not a reliable indicator of stimulus intensity. The size of the synapse and the firing rate of the neurotransmitters may also be influenced by factors other than stimulus intensity, such as the amount and type of neurotransmitters released by other neurons or the availability of receptors on the target neuron.

When Recording from a Single Neuron, Stimulus Intensity Is Represented