Question

Define depolarization, repolarization, and the action potential.

a) Depolarization is the resting state of a cell; repolarization is the initiation of nerve signals; action potential is the overall nerve activity.

b) Depolarization is the initiation of nerve signals; repolarization is the resting state of a cell; action potential is the overall nerve activity.

c) Depolarization is the rapid change in membrane potential; repolarization is the return to the resting state; action potential is the sequence of events during nerve signal transmission.

d) Depolarization is the return to the resting state; repolarization is the initiation of nerve signals; action potential is the overall nerve activity.

Answer 1

Depolarization is the rapid change in membrane potential, repolarization is the return of the cell membrane to its resting state, and the action potential is the sequence of events during nerve signal transmission.

Step-by-step explanation:

Depolarization, repolarization, and the action potential:

Depolarization is the rapid change in membrane potential that occurs when a stimulus makes the cell membrane permeable to sodium ions (Na+). This causes the inside of the cell to become more positive compared to the outside. Repolarization follows depolarization and is the return of the cell membrane to its resting state as it becomes impermeable to sodium ions again. During repolarization, potassium ions (K+) move from inside to outside the cell, restoring the negative charge inside the cell. The action potential is the sequence of events that occur during nerve signal transmission, including depolarization and repolarization.