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

2628 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Not all mutations lead to changed in amino acid sequence of polypeptides. Explain why.


Describe the stages of mitosis?


How does water travel up the stem of a plant from the roots to the leaves, wouldn't gravity prevent this?


Starch is made from two alpha-glucose polymers, amylose and amylopectin. Which is quicker to break down and why?


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