Question

A neural impulse is initiated when a neuron's charge momentarily becomes less negative, or even positive. This event is called: A. an action potential. B. a resting potential. C. impulse facilitation. D. inhibitory.

Short answer

Answer: A. an action potential.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the terms related to neural impulses

Firstly, it is important to recall the terms associated with neural impulses. Neurons communicate through electrical and chemical signals. When the neuron sends a signal, it involves changes in the electrical charge across the neuron membrane. There are several terms related to neuron charges and neural impulses, some of which are provided in the options given.

Define each term in the options

It's important to understand the definition of each term provided in the options to identify the correct answer. A. Action potential: An action potential is a rapid change in the charge across a neuron's membrane that occurs when the electrical signal travels down the neuron. B. Resting potential: The resting potential is the difference in the electric charge between the inside and outside of a resting neuron's membrane, typically around -70mV. C. Impulse facilitation: Impulse facilitation refers to the process where neural impulses are facilitated, meaning they are made easier or quicker. D. Inhibitory: Inhibitory signals are those that decrease the likelihood that a neuron will fire an action potential.

Choose the correct term based on the definitions

From the given definitions, we can determine that the event when a neuron's charge momentarily becomes less negative or even positive is called "an action potential." Therefore, the correct answer is: A. an action potential.