What is the difference between depolarization and repolarization

The electrical impulses that are initiated in nerve cells are known as action potential. Three main triggering events in an action potential are described as: depolarization, repolarization and hyperpolarization.

Depolarization is followed by repolarization. This is the difference between depolarization and repolarization. You can download PDF version of this article and use it for offline purposes as per citation note. Neuron action potentials: The creation of a brain signal.

Available here 2. Available here. Samanthi Udayangani holds a B. Degree in Plant Science, M. Your email address will not be published. Figure Depolarization. Figure Repolarization. Leave a Reply Cancel reply Your email address will not be published. Depolarization vs Repolarization. Net Charge. In depolarization, the neuron cell body has a positive charge. In repolarization, the neuron cell body has a negative charge. Inflow and Outflow of Ions. Channels Used. Metabolic Molecules 2. Water 3.

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Natural Selection 3. Classification 4. Repolarization does not trigger any mechanical activity by signaling to the effector organs such as muscles, unlike during the depolarization event. However, repolarization is essential in order to make the cell membrane ready for the transmission of a second nerve impulse by depolarizing for the second time.

The inner membrane becomes less negative during depolarization while repolarization turns the inner membrane negative.

While depolarization increases the membrane potential, repolarization decreases the membrane potential, restoring the resting membrane potential. Depolarization facilitates the firing of an action potential while repolarization prevents the firing of an action potential.

The opening of sodium channels causes depolarization while the closing of sodium channels and the opening of the potassium ion channels cause repolarization.

Whereas depolarization results in stimulating effector organs such as muscular contractions, repolarization does not result in the stimulation of the effector organ. Depolarization is the process by which the resting membrane potential is decreased, facilitating the firing of an action potential. However, repolarization is the subsequent process through which the resting membrane potential is restored.

The opening of sodium channels is responsible for the depolarization of the cell membrane while the opening of the potassium channels is responsible for the repolarization.