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Electrical Activity of Neurons

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Image of neurons from the interactive

Topic

  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Communication
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Nervous & Endocrine Systems

Resource Type

  • Interactive Media
  • Click & Learn

Level

High School — AP/IBCollege
Saved By
27 Users
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Description

This tutorial describes how neurons generate action potentials, and how scientists measure neuronal activity and record the firing of individual neurons.

Neurons encode information with electrical signals, such as action potentials. They transmit that information to other neurons through synapses. This Click & Learn describes these processes in more detail, shows how they can be measured using microelectrodes, and displays experimental results using graphs of neuron potential or voltage.

Estimated Time

One 50-minute class period.

Key Terms

action potential, Aplysia, electrode, laboratory technique, motor neuron, sensory neuron, serotonin, synapse, synaptic potential, voltage

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published 02.28.08

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS1.A

AP Biology (2019)

ENE-2.G, ENE-3.D, IST.5.A

IB Biology (2016)

6.5

VIsion and Change (2009)

CC2

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