The Action Potential

Paul Andersen explains the concept of action potentials, focusing on neurons but also applicable to muscle and endocrine cells. He covers resting potential, the role of the sodium-potassium pump, and ion permeability. The video details the mechanism of action potentials, including voltage-gated channels and the all-or-none law. It also discusses how signals propagate along axons, the importance of myelination, and the role of graded potentials in synaptic activity.

What is the resting potential of a typical human neuron?

Explain the role of the sodium-potassium pump in establishing resting potential.

What is the significance of voltage-gated channels in the action potential process?

What happens during the depolarization phase of an action potential?

How does the influx of sodium ions affect the voltage of a neuron?

Explain how myelination affects the speed of action potential propagation.

What is meant by the all-or-none law in the context of action potentials?

How do graded potentials differ from action potentials?

What role do chemically gated channels play in neuron signaling?

Describe the difference between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters.