The frequency at which a single neuron can "fire" action potentials is limited by the A) number of synapses that the neuron forms. B) number of other cells that the neuron contacts. C) refractory period for the neuron's Na⁺ channel. D) length of the axon of the neuron. E) number of dendrites on the neuron.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The refractory period for the neuron's Na+ channel limits the frequency at which a neuron can fire action potentials. The Na+ channel must reset before it can fire another action potential. Factors such as the number of synapses or dendrites do not directly affect the firing frequency of a single neuron. The length of the axon and the number of other cells it contacts may indirectly affect firing frequency, but not to the same extent as the refractory period of the Na+ channel.

The Frequency at Which a Single Neuron Can "Fire" Action