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Why does an action potential flow in only one direction? because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized because all action potentials start at the cell body (soma) O because myelin keeps the AP going in one direction O because potassium channels stay open longer, returning the cell to resting membrane potential

Why does an action potential flow in only one direction? because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized because all action potentials start at the cell body (soma) O because myelin keeps the AP going in one direction O because potassium channels stay open longer, returning the cell to resting membrane potential

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...
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**Understanding the Directionality of Action Potentials** **Question: Why does an action potential flow in only one direction?** **Options:** 1. Because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized 2. Because all action potentials start at the cell body (soma) 3. Because myelin keeps the AP going in one direction 4. Because potassium channels stay open longer, returning the cell to resting membrane potential **Explanation:** The question investigates the mechanism by which an action potential propagates uniquely in one direction along a neuron. Here are the options explained: 1. **Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels:** These channels are crucial for the initiation of action potentials. Once the membrane is depolarized, these channels rapidly inactivate, preventing the action potential from going backward. 2. **Starting Point of Action Potentials:** While action potentials do typically begin at the soma or cell body, this option does not explain why the action potential only propagates in one direction. 3. **Role of Myelin:** Myelin sheath indeed facilitates the fast transmission of action potentials but does not inherently determine the directionality. 4. **Potassium Channels:** These channels help return the membrane potential to its resting state, shaping the action potential duration but not specifically ensuring unidirectional flow. **Correct Answer:** - The unidirectional flow of action potentials is primarily due to the **inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels** after depolarization, preventing the re-firing of the action potential in the reverse direction. Therefore, the correct answer is: - **"Because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized."** This mechanism allows the action potential to move efficiently down the axon, ensuring proper signal transmission.
Transcribed Image Text:**Understanding the Directionality of Action Potentials** **Question: Why does an action potential flow in only one direction?** **Options:** 1. Because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized 2. Because all action potentials start at the cell body (soma) 3. Because myelin keeps the AP going in one direction 4. Because potassium channels stay open longer, returning the cell to resting membrane potential **Explanation:** The question investigates the mechanism by which an action potential propagates uniquely in one direction along a neuron. Here are the options explained: 1. **Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels:** These channels are crucial for the initiation of action potentials. Once the membrane is depolarized, these channels rapidly inactivate, preventing the action potential from going backward. 2. **Starting Point of Action Potentials:** While action potentials do typically begin at the soma or cell body, this option does not explain why the action potential only propagates in one direction. 3. **Role of Myelin:** Myelin sheath indeed facilitates the fast transmission of action potentials but does not inherently determine the directionality. 4. **Potassium Channels:** These channels help return the membrane potential to its resting state, shaping the action potential duration but not specifically ensuring unidirectional flow. **Correct Answer:** - The unidirectional flow of action potentials is primarily due to the **inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels** after depolarization, preventing the re-firing of the action potential in the reverse direction. Therefore, the correct answer is: - **"Because voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate once the membrane is depolarized."** This mechanism allows the action potential to move efficiently down the axon, ensuring proper signal transmission.
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