Threshold of Excitation

Definition

The threshold of excitation refers to the level of stimulation required for a neuron to fire an action potential. Once this threshold is reached, an all-or-nothing response occurs where the neuron fires at full strength.

Related terms

Resting Potential:

The electrical charge difference across a neuron's membrane when it is not being stimulated.

Depolarization:

The change in electrical charge across a neuron's membrane caused by positive ions entering, bringing the membrane potential closer to zero.

Refractory Period:

A brief period after firing an action potential during which a neuron cannot be triggered again until it has returned to its resting state.