Consider the synapse shown schematically here. If neuron A causes neuron B to become hyperpolarized relative to B's resting state,
A)neuron B is more likely to fire its own action potential.
B)neuron B is less likely to release neurotransmitter molecules from its own axon terminal.
C)neuron B is more likely to absorb extracellular potassium through voltage-gated channels.
D)neuron B is less likely to absorb extracellular sodium through the sodium-potassium pump.

Question

Consider the synapse shown schematically here.  If neuron A causes neuron B to become hyperpolarized relative to B's resting state,
A)neuron B is more likely to fire its own action potential. 
B)neuron B is less likely to release neurotransmitter molecules from its own axon terminal. 
C)neuron B is more likely to absorb extracellular potassium through voltage-gated channels. 
D)neuron B is less likely to absorb extracellular sodium through the sodium-potassium pump.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When neuron A causes neuron B to become hyperpolarized, neuron B's membrane potential becomes more negative than its resting state, making it less likely to reach its threshold for firing an action potential. As a result, neuron B is also less likely to release neurotransmitter molecules from its axon terminal, which are necessary for transmitting signals to other neurons or target cells. In hyperpolarization, there is no significant activation of voltage-gated channels for potassium or sodium, so options C and D are not correct.

Consider the Synapse Shown Schematically Here