Why is it important for potassium ions (K+) to move out of the axon once an action potential has been fired?
A) Because their continued presence would be damaging to the tissues of the axon
B) So that the neuron will have the ability to generate another action potential
C) Because of the required binding with potassium (K+) to activate the refractory period
D) In order to create a more negative charge outside rather than inside the neuron

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

After an action potential is fired, the membrane potential of the neuron becomes temporarily positive due to the influx of sodium ions (Na+). In order to generate another action potential, the membrane potential needs to be reset to its resting state, which involves the movement of potassium ions (K+) out of the cell. This process is called repolarization and prepares the neuron for the next action potential.

Why Is It Important for Potassium Ions (K+) to Move