The phrase "all or nothing" used in conjunction with discussion about an action potential means that
A)a resting membrane potential has been received by the cell.
B)the change in membrane potential always spikes with the same intensity.
C)the membrane either achieves total equilibrium or remains as far from equilibrium as possible.
D)propagation along the neuron jumps from node to node.
E)none of these occur.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The phrase "all or nothing" in relation to an action potential means that once the threshold has been reached, the change in membrane potential always spikes with the same intensity. It either happens completely or not at all, hence "all or nothing". A resting membrane potential is not relevant to this phrase, nor does it refer to the membrane achieving total equilibrium or propagating along the neuron.

The Phrase "All or Nothing" Used in Conjunction with Discussion