The electrical potential of a neuron's membrane changes through depolarization and hyperpolarization. Depolarization increases the potential, while hyperpolarization decreases it.
The axon hillock decides whether an action potential is produced during depolarization and hyperpolarization. This is where the neuron's electrical signals are combined. If the potential reaches a specific threshold, an action potential occurs.
The minimum amount of depolarization necessary at the axon hillock to generate an action potential is known as the threshold value. After reaching this value, sodium ions can enter the cell through voltage-gated ion channels. This leads to more depolarization and the propagation of an action potential along the neuron's axon.