If excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) are produced nearly simultaneously through two different synapses on the same postsynaptic neuron, the EPSPs can also add together creating ________.
A) a temporal summation
B) a spatial summation
C) a tetanus
D) the refractory state

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When EPSPs are produced nearly simultaneously through two different synapses on the same postsynaptic neuron, they can add together through spatial summation, resulting in a larger depolarization of the neuron and an increased likelihood of triggering an action potential. Temporal summation refers to the addition of EPSPs that occur in rapid succession at the same synapse, while tetanus refers to a sustained contraction of a muscle due to high frequency stimulation, and the refractory state refers to a period of time during which a neuron cannot respond to a new stimulus.

If Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials (EPSPs) Are Produced Nearly Simultaneously Through