Question

If a hyperpolarizing graded potential and a depolarizing graded potential of similar magnitudes arrive at the trigger zone at the same time, what is most likely to occur?

A) An action potential is fired off more quickly than usual.
B) Nothing. They will cancel each other out.
C) The cell becomes hyperpolarized.
D) The cell becomes easier to excite.
E) The cell dies.

Answer 1

B) Nothing. They will cancel each other out. When a hyperpolarizing graded potential and a depolarizing graded potential of similar magnitudes arrive at the trigger zone at the same time, they are likely to cancel each other out.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a hyperpolarizing graded potential and a depolarizing graded potential of similar magnitudes arrive at the trigger zone at the same time, the most likely outcome is that they will cancel each other out. This is because the hyperpolarizing potential makes the cell more negative, while the depolarizing potential makes the cell more positive. When these two potentials are equal in magnitude, their effects neutralize each other, resulting in no net change in membrane potential. Therefore, option B) Nothing is the most likely outcome.