Action potential

Definition

An action potential is a rapid, temporary change in the electrical membrane potential of a cell, which travels like a wave along the cell's membrane. It is crucial for the transmission of nerve signals and muscle contraction.

Related terms

Neuron:

A specialized cell transmitting nerve impulses; a nerve cell.

Synapse:

The junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell, where electrical or chemical signals are transmitted.

Sodium:

potassium pump - A cellular mechanism that uses ATP energy to move sodium out of cells and potassium into cells against their concentration gradients, essential for restoring conditions after an action potential