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enter image description here

I know that the part E in this graph is definitely the part of refractory period.

My question : Will there be any effect on B,C or D if a stimulus is given at time B,CorD respectively ?

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  • $\begingroup$ If there is a stimulus at E, there will be depolarization (membrane becomes relatively more positive). It is just that no action potential is fired. Therefore, if a strong stimulus does arrive, it will depolarise the membrane to an extent depending on its strength. It will increase the height of the succeeding B phase or decrease the dip of E phase. If it is strong enough, it might persist above the threshold till the refractory period is over, and then an action potential can be fired. $\endgroup$
    – stochastic13
    Jan 25, 2014 at 17:41
  • $\begingroup$ @SatwikPasani I'd say that's a great answer, would you like to add it as one? $\endgroup$
    – jonsca
    Jul 25, 2014 at 2:13

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If there is a stimulus at E, there will be depolarization (membrane becomes relatively more positive). It is just that no action potentials are fired. Therefore, if a strong stimulus does arrive, it will depolarize the membrane to an extent depending on its strength. It will increase the height of the succeeding B phase or reduce the dip of the succeeding E phase. If it is strong enough, it might persist above the threshold till the refractory period is over, and then an action potential can be fired.

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