NEET · BiologyHard

During the absolute refractory period of a neuron, which of the following states of the voltage-gated sodium channels prevents the generation of a second action potential?

  1. A.The activation gate is closed and the inactivation gate is open
  2. B.Both the activation and inactivation gates are closed
  3. C.The inactivation gate is closed and the activation gate is open
  4. D.Both the activation and inactivation gates are open
Show correct answer & step-by-step solution

Correct answer: CThe inactivation gate is closed and the activation gate is open

Solution

  1. During depolarization, the activation gate opens.
  2. At the peak of the action potential, the inactivation gate closes.
  3. The channel remains in this inactivated state until the membrane repolarizes.
  4. While the inactivation gate is closed, no stimulus can open the channel.
  5. Hence the answer is (C).

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