Immediately after an action potential passes along an axon, it is not possible to generate a second action potential; thus, we state that the membrane is briefly
A) refractory.
B) fully depolarized.
C) above threshold.
D) at the equilibrium potential.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The refractory period is the brief period of time after an action potential when the membrane is temporarily unable to generate another action potential, due to the inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels. This period can be divided into two phases: the absolute refractory period, during which no stimulus can generate an action potential; and the relative refractory period, during which a stronger-than-normal stimulus is required to generate another action potential. Thus, option A is the correct choice.

Immediately After an Action Potential Passes Along an Axon, It