Reference no: EM133478770

Question 1) Define resting membrane potential and the difference between excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs).

Question 2) Describe how the forces of diffusion and electrostatic pressure work collectively to facilitate electrochemical communication.

Question 3) Explain the action potential and the features of synaptic communication in neurons.

1. The resting membrane potential is the sum of each ion's equilibrium potential. It is an electrical voltage across the plasma membrane that depends on how many ions are passing at a time. The difference between excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) is that EPSPs have a greater reversal potential than action potentials. IPSPs have greater negative potential. While EPSPs will depolarize the membrane to exceed the threshold, IPSPs will keep the membrane potential more negative than the threshold potential.

2. The force of diffusion is equal to that of the membrane potential and the opposite of the electrostatic pressure. Diffusion and electrostatic pressure oppose each other, causing a push-and-pull effect. Depending on the charge of an ion determines which direction it will travel. This process is needed when action optional needs to travel/move the axon.

3. Action potential is one of the steps needed in synaptic transmission. It is a rapid change in voltage across the membrane that travels to the axon terminal. From there, the vesicle fuses with the membrane causing the neurotransmitter to release its contents into the synaptic gap. This causes the receptor sites to bind with the postsynaptic cell.