Once an action potential occurs at the axon hillock, why is it replicated at the next node of Ranvier?
A) Incoming sodium ions diffuse to the next node, pushing potassium ions ahead as well, and threshold will be attained.
B) The sodium-potassium pumps at the next node recapture sufficient potassium to reach threshold and trigger another action potential.
C) The action potential drifts passively down the length of the entire axon.
D) The occurrence of an action potential at the axon hillock attracts potassium from the adjacent node, and threshold will be attained.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Incoming sodium ions from the action potential at the axon hillock diffuse along the inside of the axon membrane to the next node of Ranvier. This local influx of sodium ions depolarizes the membrane at the next node to threshold, initiating another action potential there. This process repeats along the length of the axon, ensuring the propagation of the action potential.

Once an Action Potential Occurs at the Axon Hillock, Why