ATI Neurological System Questions Related

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A refractory period is___________.

  • A. a brief time when a neuron is unable to conduct an impulse
  • B. the period during which potassium and sodium ions are completely stable
  • C. the same as the resting potential
  • D. the short time the myelin sheath provides insulation from another impulse
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The refractory period is a brief time following an action potential during which a neuron is unable to fire another impulse. This period ensures that action potentials propagate in one direction and allows the neuron to reset its ion gradients. The refractory period is divided into the absolute refractory period, when no new action potentials can be generated, and the relative refractory period, when a stronger-than-usual stimulus is required to generate an action potential.