The refractory period, while brief, is a biologically significant phase of the signal transmission process because A) during the absolute refractory period, a stronger than normal stimulus will cause the neuron to fire. B) during the relative refractory period, a weaker than normal stimulus will cause the neuron to fire. C) it can last for up to 50 milliseconds. D) it determines the neuron's rate of maximum firing.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The refractory period is crucial because it sets the limit on how frequently a neuron can fire, thereby determining its maximum firing rate. During the absolute refractory period, no stimulus can trigger another action potential, ensuring that each signal is distinct and preventing the neuron from being overstimulated. The relative refractory period allows a neuron to fire again, but only in response to a stronger-than-normal stimulus, not a weaker one, making option D correct. Options A and B inaccurately describe the effects of stimuli during the refractory periods, and while C might be a characteristic of the refractory period, it does not explain its biological significance in signal transmission.

The refractory Period, While Brief, Is a Biologically Significant Phase