A signal that decreases the chance the neuron will fire is called a ___.
A) excitatory presynaptic potential
B) inhibitory presynaptic potential
C) excitatory postsynaptic potential
D) inhibitory postsynaptic potential

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) is a signal that decreases the likelihood that the postsynaptic neuron will fire an action potential. This is accomplished by hyperpolarizing the membrane potential of the postsynaptic neuron, making it more negative. In contrast, excitatory presynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) increase the probability that the neuron will fire.

A Signal That Decreases the Chance the Neuron Will Fire