Question

What are the three basic characteristics of all action potentials?

1) Resting potential, depolarization, repolarization
2) Threshold potential, hyperpolarization, depolarization
3) Action potential, resting potential, hyperpolarization
4) Repolarization, threshold potential, resting potential

Answer 1

The three basic characteristics of an action potential are depolarization, repolarization, and hyperpolarization, which occur after the neuron reaches the threshold potential.

Step-by-step explanation:

The three basic characteristics of all action potentials are depolarization, repolarization, and hyperpolarization. Initially, a stimulus causes the membrane to depolarize towards the threshold potential. If this threshold is reached, the neuron "fires" and causes a rapid influx of Na+ ions, leading to depolarization. This is followed by the opening of K+ channels and the exit of K+ ions, resulting in repolarization. Finally, the cell becomes hyperpolarized before the Na+/K+ pump helps to restore the resting potential.