action potential

noun

Definition of action potential

: a momentary reversal in electrical potential across a plasma membrane (as of a neuron or muscle fiber) that occurs when a cell has been activated by a stimulus

Examples of action potential in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Divide and Conquer The brain is a power-hungry organ; neurons are constantly sending each other information in the form of electrical pulses, known as spikes or action potentials. Quanta Magazine, "The Neuroscience Behind Bad Decisions," 23 Aug. 2016

First Known Use of action potential

1913, in the meaning defined above

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More Definitions for action potential

action potential

noun

Medical Definition of action potential

: a momentary reversal in the potential difference across a plasma membrane (as of a nerve cell or muscle fiber) that occurs when a cell has been activated by a stimulus

called also spike potential

— compare resting potential — see afterpotential, generator potential, prepotential