What happens when the sodium channel activation gates open?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the effects that occur when the sodium channel activation gates open during an action potential in a neuron. It focuses on the changes in ion permeability and ion movement that happen at this stage.
Answer
Allows an influx of sodium ions, causing depolarization.
The opening of the sodium channel activation gates allows an influx of sodium ions into the cell, leading to depolarization of the cell membrane.
Answer for screen readers
The opening of the sodium channel activation gates allows an influx of sodium ions into the cell, leading to depolarization of the cell membrane.
More Information
The process of depolarization is crucial for the initiation and propagation of action potentials in neurons, affecting signaling in the nervous system.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the role of sodium channels in depolarization with that of potassium channels, which are involved in repolarizing the cell.
Sources
- Physiology, Sodium Channels - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Neuron depolarization, hyperpolarization, and action potentials - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
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