Neurons are able to generate action potentials, propagate signals along axons, a
ID: 73102 • Letter: N
Question
Neurons are able to generate action potentials, propagate signals along axons, and communicate with other neurons or effector cells at chemical synapses. Explain why each of the following statements regarding nerve cells function is incorrect. In each case, and adequate explanation requires a correct statement regarding the aspect of neuron behavior being addressed.
a) an action potential is a rapid change in membrane potential depolarization followed by repolarization) that occurs over the surface of the entire neuron.
B) when an action potential has been generated, propagation of the signal entails diffusion of the action potential along the axon.
C) Arrival of the signal at the end of axon results in release of vesicles containing neurotransmitter molecules; the vesicles diffuse across the synaptic cleft and fuse with the post synaptic membrane.
Explanation / Answer
Transmission of a nerve impulse: Resting potential and action potential. Like the gaps between the Schwann cells on an insulated axon, a gap called a synapse or synaptic cleft separates the axon of one neuron and the dendrites of the next neuron.