How a Neuron Functions

Topic Content:

All cells show a difference in electrical charge between the cytoplasm (negative charge) and extracellularsituated or occurring outside a cell or the cells of the body. More fluid (positive charge). This is referred to as membrane potential .

A neuron at rest or un-stimulated is at resting potential. A nerve fibre is electrically polarized with a net positive charge outside and a net negative charge inside the cell membrane.

There are more sodium ions (Na⁺ ) outside the membrane and more potassium ions (K⁺ ) inside the membrane. At this state, the net flow of impulses is zero.

Action Potential:

Action potentials are nerve signals. Neurons generate and