Depolarization

Definition

Depolarization is when there's a shift in a neuron's electrical charge that allows an action potential (nerve impulse) to occur.

Analogy

Imagine you're at an amusement park waiting for your favorite roller coaster ride. The ride can't start until everyone's safety bar is down and locked - this is like depolarization! It's preparing everything for action so that when it happens, it goes smoothly and effectively!

Related terms

Action Potential: This refers to the change in electrical potential associated with the passage of an impulse along the membrane of a muscle cell or nerve cell.

Resting Potential: This refers to the state where no neural impulse is being transmitted; it’s essentially ‘at rest’.

Hyperpolarization: This occurs when there’s an increase in negative charge inside the neuron making it less likely for an action potential to occur.