Final answer:
L-type calcium channels play a different role in the development of an action potential in cardiac conductive cells compared to cardiac contractile cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of L-type calcium channels and the development of an action potential differ in cardiac conductive cells and cardiac contractile cells.
In cardiac conductive cells, the action potential begins with a slow influx of sodium ions, leading to a gradual rise in membrane potential. This prepotential depolarization is followed by the opening of calcium ion channels, causing a more rapid depolarization.
Repolarization then occurs through the opening of potassium channels.
In cardiac contractile cells, the resting phase is more stable. Upon stimulation by an action potential, there is a rapid depolarization, followed by a plateau phase caused by the influx of calcium ions.
The extended refractory period allows the cell to fully contract before another electrical event can occur.