Change in electrical charge

Definition

A change in electrical charge refers to a shift in the balance of positive and negative ions within a neuron, which triggers the neuron to generate an electrical impulse.

Related terms

Resting potential: The baseline electrical charge of a neuron when it is not actively transmitting signals.

Action potential: The rapid change in electrical charge that occurs when a neuron is firing.

Threshold:

The minimum level of stimulation required for a neuron to generate an action potential.