If the resting axon's membrane becomes more permeable to potassium ions,
A) the inside of the membrane will become more positively charged.
B) the membrane will depolarize more rapidly.
C) it will take a stimulus of larger magnitude to initiate an action potential.
D) the hyperpolarization at the end of the action potential will not occur.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If the resting axon's membrane becomes more permeable to potassium ions, more potassium ions will move out of the cell, which will make the inside of the membrane more negative. This will make it more difficult for the membrane to depolarize, requiring a larger stimulus to initiate an action potential. The hyperpolarization at the end of the action potential will still occur, but it may be more prolonged due to the increased potassium permeability. Therefore, choice C is the best answer.

If the Resting Axon's Membrane Becomes More Permeable to Potassium