In order to generate an action potential, the magnitude of the inward sodium current must be large enough to overcome which of the following?
A) outward sodium current
B) outward calcium current
C) inward potassium current
D) inward chloride current
E) outward potassium current

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inward sodium current must be large enough to overcome the outward potassium current to generate an action potential. This is because, during the rising phase of the action potential, sodium ions flow into the cell, depolarizing the membrane. The outward potassium current, which flows in the opposite direction, acts to repolarize the membrane, returning it to its resting potential. For an action potential to occur, the inward flow of sodium ions must temporarily overcome this outward flow of potassium ions.

In Order to Generate an Action Potential, the Magnitude of the Inward