Which prevents an action potential from moving backward along the axon? In other words,why do action potentials move in one direction only,down the axon away from the cell body?
A)Myelin sheaths prevent the action potential from moving backward.
B)The refractory period prevents the action potential from moving backward.
C)In some axons,action potentials do move backward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The refractory period prevents the action potential from moving backward because during this period, the portion of the axon that just underwent an action potential is temporarily unable to fire another action potential. This ensures that the wave of depolarization can only move in one direction down the axon towards the axon terminal. Myelin sheaths also aid in this process by increasing the speed of conduction and preventing the dissipation of the electrical signal along the axon. While action potentials can move backwards in some circumstances, this is not the general rule and is not necessary for normal neural function.

Which Prevents an Action Potential from Moving Backward Along the Axon