When the quadriceps muscle extends the lower leg in the patella reflex,what is occurring in the motor neuron to produce an action potential?
A)Influx of sodium and efflux of potassium
B)Influx of sodium and efflux of calcium
C)Influx of potassium and efflux of sodium
D)Influx of both sodium and potassium
E)Efflux of both sodium and potassium

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The action potential in a motor neuron is generated by the influx of sodium ions, which depolarizes the membrane, and the efflux of potassium ions, which repolarizes the membrane. Therefore, the best choice is A, which states that there is an influx of sodium and efflux of potassium. Choice D also mentions both sodium and potassium, but it is incorrect because it implies that there is an influx of both ions, which is not the case. Choice B is incorrect because there is no efflux of calcium. Choice C is also incorrect because it implies that there is an efflux of sodium, which is not the case. Choice E is incorrect because it implies that there is an efflux of both sodium and potassium, which is not the case.

When the Quadriceps Muscle Extends the Lower Leg in the Patella