Question

The simultaneous arrival of graded depolarization and a graded hyperpolarization of equal but opposite magnitude at a particular location on the dendritic membrane is likely to _____.

Answer 1

The simultaneous arrival of graded depolarization and a graded hyperpolarization of equal but opposite magnitude at a particular location on the dendritic membrane is likely to cancel the effects of each other and no change will occur in the membrane potential.

Explanation:

Graded potentials lead to temporary minor changes in the membrane potential associated with neuron’s dendrites. The amount of change caused depends upon the size and duration of the stimulus. These can be depolarizing or hyperpolarizing.  

Graded depolarization occurs due to the entry of sodium or calcium ions; whereas, graded hyperpolarization occurs due to exit of potassium ions or entry of chloride ions.  

When equal but opposite magnitude of graded depolarization and hyperpolarization occurs at a particular dendride of  a neuron, the positive and negative charges get neutralized causing little or no effect on the total membrane potential.