1.Define inactivation as it applies to a voltage-gated sodium channel. Voltage-gated sodium channels are
inactivated when they no longer allow sodium to diffuse through.
2. Define the absolute refractory period The absolute refractory period is the time in which no action potential
can be generated regardless of the strength of the stimulus.
3. How did the threshold for the second action potential change as you further decreased the interval between
the stimuli? How well did the results compare with your prediction? The threshold for the second action
potential increased as the interval between the stimuli decreased as predicted.
4. Why is it harder to generate a second action potential during the relative refractory period? A greater
stimulus is required because voltage gated potassium channels that oppose depolarization are open during this
time.