During the repolarizing phase of an action potential, which ion movement predominates?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the Ivy Tech APHY 101 Muscle System Test. Dive into comprehensive questions with clear hints and explanations, boosting your confidence for the exam!

Multiple Choice

During the repolarizing phase of an action potential, which ion movement predominates?

Explanation:
Repolarization is driven by potassium leaving the cell. When the action potential peaks, voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate and potassium channels open, allowing K+ to flow out (K+ efflux). This outward movement of positive charge makes the inside of the cell more negative again, bringing the membrane potential back toward the resting level. Calcium influx can influence other phases (like a plateau in cardiac cells), but it is potassium efflux that mainly completes repolarization.

Repolarization is driven by potassium leaving the cell. When the action potential peaks, voltage-gated sodium channels inactivate and potassium channels open, allowing K+ to flow out (K+ efflux). This outward movement of positive charge makes the inside of the cell more negative again, bringing the membrane potential back toward the resting level. Calcium influx can influence other phases (like a plateau in cardiac cells), but it is potassium efflux that mainly completes repolarization.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy