Chapter 12.6, Problem 8AYLO

Summary Introduction

To discuss:

Why the refractory period sets a limit to how frequently a neuron can fire.

Introduction:

It is impossible or difficult to trigger the site of a nerve cell to fire againfor a short period; during an action potential, it is called the refractory period. It is classified into the absolute refractory period and relative refractory period. A refractory period is the typical recovery time. The absolute refractory period relates to depolarization, whereas relative refractory period relates to hyperpolarization.