What is an action potential?

An action potential is defined as a brief electrical signal that is transmitted along the axon of a neuron when it becomes sufficiently stimulated. This process is essential for the communication between neurons and is fundamental to the functioning of the nervous system. Specifically, when a neuron reaches a certain threshold of depolarization, voltage-gated sodium channels open, allowing sodium ions to flow into the cell, resulting in a rapid increase in voltage. This change in voltage travels down the axon, ultimately leading to the release of neurotransmitters at synapses, where communication with other neurons occurs. Understanding action potentials is crucial for any study related to neuroscience or psychology, as it underpins many aspects of behavior and mental processes.

The other options refer to concepts that do not involve the neurobiological processes associated with action potentials. A mental state pertains to psychological conditions, while conflict resolution and behavioral change strategies are related to interpersonal dynamics and psychology, rather than the physiological mechanisms of neuronal signaling.