Intermediate
Technical
IVT
action potential
The electrical signal that travels along a neuron's axon when the cell is stimulated.
Full Definition
An action potential is a rapid, temporary change in electrical voltage across a neuron's membrane that propagates along the axon. This electrical signal is the fundamental mechanism by which neurons communicate information throughout the nervous system. The process involves depolarization, repolarization, and a brief refractory period during which the neuron cannot fire again.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as AP in technical contexts, but spell out in patient-facing materials.
In Context
- "The researcher measured action potential frequency in response to different stimulus intensities." — research paper
- "Action potential propagation was significantly delayed in the demyelinated axons." — clinical study
Also known as
nerve impulse
spike
Contrasted with
resting potential
Don't confuse with
graded potential
receptor potential