Explain the steps of action potential across an axon membrane?

Resting Potential-3 Na+ out, 2 K+ in.Action potential- A stimulus is detected causing Sodium voltage gated channels to open, leading to Na+ to flow into the axon and therefor making the inside less negative.This change in charge causes more Sodium cottage gated channels to open, meaning more Na+ flows into the axon down their electrochemical gradient. The potential difference reaches +40Mv and Sodium channels close. The membrane is now more permeable to Potassium ions. K+ flow out of axon down their electrochemical gradient, leading to a less negative charge on the outside.Initially lots of K+ flow out leading to hyper-polarisation, this causes K+ channels to close and axon returns back to resting potential.

IJ
Answered by Isabelle J. Biology tutor

2696 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Can you name the 3 different energy systems and give an example when each would be used?


How is protein digested in the human gut?


Describe the structure and function of a chemical synapse.


Explain the role of auxins in the control of phototropism


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning