Which of the following statements is TRUE with respect to an axon's ability to fire immediately following an action potential?
A) The axon cannot fire during the absolute refractory period. It can fire during the relative refractory period no matter how strong the stimulus is.
B) The axon cannot fire during either the absolute or the relative refractory period
C) The axon can fire during either the absolute or the relative refractory period no matter how strong the stimulus is.
D) The axon cannot fire during the absolute refractory period. It can fire during the relative refractory period given a strong enough stimulus.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the absolute refractory period, the axon is unable to fire an action potential no matter how strong the stimulus. However, during the relative refractory period, the axon can fire another action potential, but only if the stimulus is strong enough to overcome the increased threshold due to the hyperpolarization of the membrane potential. Therefore, the correct statement is that the axon cannot fire during the absolute refractory period, but it can fire during the relative refractory period given a strong enough stimulus.

Which of the Following Statements Is TRUE with Respect to an Axon's