Question

Define, compare, and contrast the following concepts:

threshold, subthreshold, suprathreshold, all-or-none, overshoot, undershoot

graded potential, EPSP, IPSP

absolute refractory period, relative refractory period

afferent neuron, efferent neuron, interneuron

sensory neuron, somatic motor neuron, sympathetic neuron, autonomic neuron, parasympathetic neuron

fast synaptic potential, slow synaptic potential

temporal summation, spatial summation

convergence, divergence

Answer 1

Final answer:

Graded potentials are small changes in membrane voltage that can add together and reach threshold, initiating an action potential. They can be excitatory or inhibitory, and the effects can be spatial or temporal.

Step-by-step explanation:

All types of graded potentials, including generator potentials, receptor potentials, and postsynaptic potentials, result in small changes in the voltage of a membrane. These changes can add together, or summate, to reach threshold and initiate an action potential. Graded potentials can be excitatory or inhibitory, depending on whether they depolarize or hyperpolarize the membrane.

Spatial summation occurs when multiple graded potentials at different locations on a neuron add together, while temporal summation occurs when multiple graded potentials from a single cell add together over time.