action potentials

Nerve cells send and recieve messages through a series of elecrical and chemical signals. The electrical signals are propogated by the opening or closing of ion channels on the neuron. The movement of charged ions across the membrane changes the neurons membrane potential. The resting membrane potential is aroung -64mV. In order for a neuron to send a signal to the next neuron the electrical threshold must be met to create an action potential. The threshold is around -40mV. When the threshold is met, the action potential must take place. This opens ion channels all the way down the axon to propel the electrical change throughout the neuron. Once the signal reaches the axon hillock, it causes the release of vessicles from the axon across the synapse containing neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters bind to the dendrite and send the signal along its way.