Action potentials result from ________.
A) the closing of ion channels
B) a change in the membrane potential of axons
C) the opening of calcium gates
D) neurons transporting neurotransmitters
E) All of the answers are correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Action potentials occur when there is a rapid, temporary change in the membrane potential of axons, which is caused by the movement of ions across the cell membrane. Specifically, the action potential involves a brief depolarization as voltage-gated sodium channels open, followed by repolarization as potassium channels open and sodium channels close. The opening and closing of ion channels is what drives the action potential, therefore, choice A and C are incorrect. While neurotransmitters play a role in transmitting signals between neurons, they are not directly involved in generating action potentials, making choice D incorrect. Hence, the correct answer is choice B.

Action Potentials Result from ________