How does an action potential work?

Resting potential at - 75mV

Stimulus causes opening of sodium channels and influx of sodium ions, membrane becomes less polarized

Threshold potential reached at -55mV, opening of many more sodium channels, greater influx of sodium ions --> action potential generated

CH
Answered by Catherine H. Biology tutor

3039 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does saltatory conduction work?


Contrast the processes of facilitated diffusion and active transport. (3 marks)


Explain the difference between spatial and temporal summation at a synapse.


Name the first stage of mitosis, and describe what happens at this stage


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning