Study Guides
How Nerves Work
The differences in ion distribution across a membrane results in a voltage difference (or potential) across the membranes of all cells.
The sodium/potassium pumps and the differential permeabilities of ion channels in the membrane create a concentration of sodium ions that is higher on the outside of the membrane and a concentration of potassium ions that is higher on the inside of the membrane.
Some signals can produce ion flow changes in a neuron. In this Lesson, youll learn about a unique feature of neurons, called the action potential, that results from ion flow changes.
Action potentials cause the release of chemical messengers from the neurons. Nerve gases and many drugs interfere with these chemical messengers.