Saltatory conduction is made possible by ________.
A) the myelin sheath
B) large nerve fibers
C) diphasic impulses
D) erratic transmission of nerve impulses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Saltatory conduction refers to the rapid transmission of nerve impulses along myelinated axons through the process of jumping from one node of Ranvier to the next. The myelin sheath acts as an insulator, preventing ion leakage across the axonal membrane and allowing the electric charge to jump quickly from one node to the next rather than having to travel the entire length of the axon. Large nerve fibers also help facilitate saltatory conduction, but the myelin sheath is the key factor. Diphasic impulses and erratic transmission of nerve impulses are not related to saltatory conduction.

Saltatory Conduction Is Made Possible by ________