Myelin is important for propagating action potentials (AP)because:
A) it increases the AP's conduction speed.
B) it reduces the need for sodium and potassium.
C) it conserves energy.
D) it both increases the AP's conduction speed and conserves energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Myelin increases the AP's conduction speed by allowing for saltatory conduction, where the AP jumps between nodes of Ranvier instead of traveling along the entire axon. This conserves energy by reducing the amount of ions required for depolarization and repolarization. Therefore, choice D - both increasing the AP's conduction speed and conserving energy - is the best choice.

Myelin Is Important for Propagating Action Potentials (AP)because