Saltatory conduction: Difference between revisions
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Due to the [[Myelin Sheath|myelination of]] [[Neuron|neurones]] within [[Mammals|mammalian]] nervous systems, [[Action potential|action potentials]] may only occur at the [[Nodes of Ranvier|Nodes of Ranvier]]. Thus, action potentials appear to jump from node to node when travelling down an [[Axon|axon]]. This phenomenon is known as '''''saltatory conduction''''', and serves as a means of increasing the rate of propagation of an action potential. | |||
Revision as of 20:44, 12 November 2012
Due to the myelination of neurones within mammalian nervous systems, action potentials may only occur at the Nodes of Ranvier. Thus, action potentials appear to jump from node to node when travelling down an axon. This phenomenon is known as saltatory conduction, and serves as a means of increasing the rate of propagation of an action potential.