Action potential

An action potential is a rapid, transient change in the membrane potential of excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle fibres, that occurs when a threshold is reached, allowing for the propagation of electrical signals. This process is crucial for communication within the nervous system and muscle contraction, making it fundamental in understanding conditions like arrhythmias or neurological disorders. A key example is the role of action potentials in the heartbeat, where disruptions can lead to serious cardiac complications.