How is an action potential generated?

An action potential is the propagation of the reversal of charge across a membrane voltage gated Na+ ion channels sense a change in membrane potential causing them to open Na+ moves down its concentration gradient and into the axon seeing it become more positive (depolarisation)this continues until action potential is reached (+40mV) where the Na+ ion channels close voltage gated K+ channels open K+ moves down concentration gradient and out of axon seeing the membrane become more negative (repolarisation)once resting potential (-70mV) is reached there is a delay in the closing of K+ channels (hyperpolarisation)the Na/K ATPase pump restores resting potential (at -70mV) by pumping 3Na+ in and 2K+ out

EH
Answered by Emma H. Biology tutor

2446 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How is structure relevant to enzyme function?


What is an atheroma and how can it lead to a heart attack?


Why is the resting membrane potential of a neurone negative when there are positive ions inside the cell?


Describe how an antibody works?


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