Notre Dame of Marbel University

College of Education
Alunan Ave., Poblacion, Koronadal City

Cyber John S. Ismil BSED - Science 3

ACTION POTENTIAL

Action Potential refers to the rapid change in the membrane potential due to the
opening and closing of ion channels in the plasma membrane.

1. Resting State - the membrane potential of a neuron is at rest. The voltage-gated

Na+ and K+ channels are closed. The plasma membrane is at its resting potential.
2. Depolarizing Phase - This starts when membrane potential of axon reaches
threshold. Na+ channels open, permitting Na+ to enter the neuron. This increase of
positive ions depolarizes the membrane potential. This influences Voltage-gated
Sodium Channels to open,thus allowing the action potential to propagate throughout
the terminal end of the axon.
3. Repolarizing phase - This is when the Na+ channel inactivation gates close and
Voltage-gated Potassium Channels open. This allows more K+ to leave the cell.
4. After-Hyperpolarizing Phase - The slow closing of VGPC hyperpolarizes the
membrane, which bring it back to the resting state.