Dr Pohler Is a Neurobiologist Studying Ways to Enhance the Perception

question 70

Multiple Choice

Dr. Pohler is a neurobiologist studying ways to enhance the perception of sound in people with hearing difficulties. He discovers a natural neurotransmitter that increases the chance a neuron will fire an action potential, increasing sensitivity to sound. What is the effect of this neurotransmitter on the receiving neuron?

• A)inhibitory, causing hyperpolarization
• B)inhibitory, causing depolarization
• C)excitatory, causing hyperpolarization
• D)excitatory, causing depolarization

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Definitions:

Resting Potential

The electrical potential of a neuron when not stimulated or involved in passage of an impulse, typically around -70mV.

Axon

a part of a neuron that conducts impulses away from the cell body towards other neurons or muscles.

Electrical Charge

A fundamental property of matter that exists in either a positive or negative state and causes it to experience a force when placed in an electromagnetic field.

All-Or-None Law

A principle that states that the strength of a response of a nerve cell or muscle fiber is not dependent on the strength of the stimulus; if a stimulus is above a certain threshold, a nerve or muscle fiber will fire.