An Action Potential in Muscle is Caused by _______

Question

An action potential in muscle is caused by _______.
A) repolarization of the axon
B) acetylcholinesterase in the synapse
C) release of stored calcium
D) a change in the distribution of electric charge across the membrane of the muscle fiber

Accepted Answer

An action potential in muscle is caused by a change in the distribution of electric charge across the membrane of the muscle fiber. This change allows for the release of stored calcium, which ultimately leads to muscle contraction. Acetylcholinesterase in the synapse is involved in the termination of a nerve impulse, not in the generation of an action potential in a muscle cell. Repolarization of the axon is the return of the electrical charge within the nerve cell to its resting state after an action potential has occurred, and is not directly involved in muscle contraction.