When two excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) occur at a single synapse so rapidly in succession that the postsynaptic neuron's membrane potential has not returned to the resting potential before the second EPSP arrives, the EPSPs add together, producing ________.
A) summation
B) inhibition
C) tetanus
D) the refractory state
E) an action potential with an abnormally high peak of depolarization

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two EPSPs occur in rapid succession, they can summate, leading to a higher amplitude and longer duration of depolarization in the postsynaptic neuron. This is known as temporal summation. Therefore, the correct choice is A) summation.

When Two Excitatory Postsynaptic Potentials (EPSPs) Occur at a Single