In a graded potential, the direction of current flow is designated by the movement of positive charges.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a graded potential, the flow of positive charges determines the direction of current flow. This is because in most cases, neurons that generate graded potentials are polarized, which means that they have a relatively negative internal environment compared to the external environment. As a result, positively charged ions (such as sodium ions) tend to move into the cell, while negatively charged ions (such as chloride ions) tend to move out of the cell. The movement of positive charges into the cell contributes to depolarization, while the movement of positive charges out of the cell contributes to hyperpolarization. Therefore, the direction of current flow is determined by the movement of positive charges.

In a Graded Potential, the Direction of Current Flow Is