Understanding Neuronal Communication: The Role of Threshold, Depolarization, and Frequency in Action Potential Initiation and Neurotransmitter Release

A series of local potentials causes the membrane potential to move to -80 mV. Predict the result.a. threshold is reachedb. depolarization occursc. the neuron is hyperpolarizedd. information of frequency is needed to predict the resulte. the neuron releases neurotransmitter in response

the neuron is hyperpolarized

a. Threshold is reached: If the series of local potentials depolarizes the membrane potential to reach the threshold level of -55 mV, an action potential will be triggered. Therefore, the result of reaching the threshold depends on how close the membrane potential is to the threshold level (-55 mV).

b. Depolarization occurs: If the series of local potentials further depolarizes the membrane potential to a more positive value than -55 mV, depolarization occurs. This could lead to the initiation of an action potential.

c. The neuron is hyperpolarized: If the series of local potentials hyperpolarizes the membrane potential to a more negative value than -80 mV, the neuron becomes hyperpolarized and less likely to generate an action potential.

d. Information of frequency is needed to predict the result: The frequency of the local potentials could affect the likelihood of an action potential being generated. A higher frequency of local potentials could lead to depolarization and action potential initiation. Therefore, information on the frequency is necessary to predict the result accurately.

e. The neuron releases neurotransmitter in response: If an action potential is initiated, the neuron releases neurotransmitter at the synapse. However, the occurrence of local potentials alone does not guarantee the release of neurotransmitter. It depends on whether or not an action potential is generated.

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