When Sodium Channels are Inactivating and Potassium Channels are Open

Question

When sodium channels are inactivating and potassium channels are open, it is known as:
A) resting period.
B) hyperpolarization.
C) depolarization.
D) absolute refractory period.
E) repolarization.

Accepted Answer

During this phase, sodium channels are inactivating, preventing further sodium ions from entering the cell, while potassium channels open to allow potassium ions to exit the cell. This process helps to restore the negative membrane potential, moving the cell back towards its resting state, which is why it is referred to as repolarization.