a periodic production of action potentials even without synaptic input
The firing rate of a neuron refers to the frequency at which it generates action potentials, typically measured in spikes per second (Hz). This rate can vary significantly depending on the type of neuron and its physiological state, ranging from a few spikes per second to hundreds. Factors such as synaptic inputs, membrane potential, and the overall activity of the neuronal network can influence a neuron's firing rate. It plays a crucial role in encoding information and communicating within the nervous system.
The effect upon the target neuron is determined not by the source neuron or by the neurotransmitter, but by the type of receptor that is activated. A neurotransmitter can be thought of as a key, and a receptor as a lock: the same type of key can here be used to open many different types of locks. Receptors can be classified broadly as excitatory(causing an increase in firing rate),inhibitory(causing a decrease in firing rate), or modulatory(causing long-lasting effects not directly related to firing rate).
The process by which inhibitory and excitatory post-synaptic potentials summate and control the rate of firing of a neuron.
As the firing rate of a somatic motor neuron increases, the muscle fiber experiences a greater frequency of action potentials, leading to more frequent contractions. This can result in a stronger force of contraction due to summation, where the muscle fibers do not have enough time to fully relax between stimuli. If the firing rate is sufficiently high, this can lead to tetanus, where the muscle remains in a sustained contraction. Overall, increased firing rates enhance the muscle's contraction strength and efficiency.
The simplest sense, the all-or-none principle of neuronal firing means that a neuron will either fire or it won't, there is no "half" firing. When a neuron receives excitatory input.
yes
Excitatory neurotransmitter
Yes, caffeine effects the brain by increasing the neuron firing. Caffeine also speeds up other things like your heart rate.
True
Resting potential.
Resting potential
The state of a neuron when it is not firing a neural impulse is called the resting potential. This is when the neuron is negatively charged inside compared to outside, waiting for a stimulus to change its electrical charge and initiate an action potential.