Question

Opening a na+ channel in a non-neural sensory receptor cell would cause that cell to

A) hyperpolarize
B) depolarize
C) generate an action potential
D) decrease neurotransmitter release

Answer 1

Opening a Na+ channel in a non-neural sensory receptor cell leads to depolarization of the cell as sodium ions enter and make the inside of the cell less negative.

Step-by-step explanation:

Opening a Na+ channel in a non-neural sensory receptor cell would result in the influx of Na+ ions into the cell, which would then cause the inside of the cell to become less negative, leading to a change in the voltage across the cell membrane. This process is known as depolarization. It is a key part of how sensory information is transmitted to the nervous system; the initial part of this process can lead to triggering an action potential if the threshold is reached. However, the question specifically refers to the immediate consequence of opening Na+ channels, and thus the correct answer is that the cell would depolarize.