An action potential can start in the middle of an axon and proceed to both opposite directions when
A)the neuron is an inhibitory neuron and operating normally.
B)only the middle section of the axon has been artificially stimulated by an electrode.
C)the dendritic region fires an action potential.
D)it is in its typical refractory state.
E)its membrane potential is above the threshold.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When only the middle section of the axon has been artificially stimulated by an electrode, an action potential can start in the middle of an axon and proceed in both opposite directions. This is because the area surrounding the stimulated region is still at resting potential and can respond to the depolarization wave initiated by the artificially stimulated region.

An Action Potential Can Start in the Middle of an Axon