A change in the axon membrane potential from -70 mV to -90 mV would be termed a(n)
A) depolarization.
B) threshold potential.
C) action potential.
D) hyperpolarization.
E) excitatory local potential.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A change in the axon membrane potential from -70 mV (resting potential) to -90 mV (more negative than resting potential) is a hyperpolarization, meaning the membrane potential is further away from the threshold potential needed to initiate an action potential.  Depolarization is a change in membrane potential towards a less negative value, and action potential and threshold potential are specific values (-55 mV for threshold) rather than changes in membrane potential. Excitatory local potential refers to a graded potential in the dendrites or soma that makes an action potential more likely to occur.

A Change in the Axon Membrane Potential from -70 MV