In this video, Dr. Kushner breaks down an action potential, a brief electrical charge that travels down the axon of a neuron. Consider the different phases to this amazing event:
1. Depolarization (sodium channels open - Na+ rushes in - neuron become more positive - generates an action potential - +30 mV)
2. Repolarization (sodium channels close; potassium channels open - K+ rushes out; neuron rebalances voltage)
3. Hyperpolarization/Refractory period (neuron recharges; -90 mV)
5. Resting potential/state (neuron returns to -70 mV)