A change in resting membrane potential confined to a small area is called a(n)
A)local potential.
B)action potential.
C)summated potential.
D)after potential.
E)resting membrane potential.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A change in resting membrane potential confined to a small area is an example of local potential. This type of potential occurs when a stimulus affects the membrane potential of a single region of a neuron, and is characterized by a graded depolarization or hyperpolarization that decreases in intensity as it spreads away from the point of origin. This is distinct from an action potential, which is an all-or-nothing event that propagates down the length of the axon. Summated potential, after potential, and resting membrane potential are not the best choices as they do not describe a localized change in membrane potential.

A Change in Resting Membrane Potential Confined to a Small