Neurons conduct an action potential
A)when sodium is pumped out of the neuron.
B)when molecular gates open to allow sodium ions into a neuron.
C)when the electrical stimulation dips below -70 millivolts.
D)only if surrounded by a myelin sheath.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Neurons conduct an action potential when molecular gates open to allow sodium ions into a neuron. This influx of sodium ions leads to depolarization of the cell membrane, which triggers the action potential. Pumping sodium out of the neuron is not part of this process. The electrical stimulation needs to surpass the threshold of -55 millivolts for the action potential to occur, not dip below -70 millivolts. While a myelin sheath does play a role in the speed of neuronal conduction, it is not necessary for an action potential to occur.

Neurons Conduct an Action Potential