The likely effect on a neuron of 2 excitatory signals and 20 inhibitory signals is
A) transmission of a nerve impulse.
B) transmission of a nerve impulse, releasing excitatory neurotransmitters at the next synapse.
C) transmission of a nerve impulse, releasing inhibitory neurotransmitters at the next synapse.
D) prohibiting the axon from firing at all.
E) confused integration.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inhibition signals are much more numerous than the excitatory signals, thus causing the neuron to not fire an action potential at all. This is known as "inhibitory postsynaptic potential" (IPSP) and can result in the neuron being inhibited by many different inputs at the same time, causing it to not fire.

The Likely Effect on a Neuron of 2 Excitatory Signals