DEPOLARIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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Depolarization is a physiological process that refers to the change in electrical potential across the cell membrane of a neuron or muscle fiber. This change in potential occurs when there is a shift in the distribution of ions—specifically sodium and potassium—on either side of the cell membrane.
Normally, a neuron or muscle fiber exists in a polarized state, meaning there is a difference in electrical charge between the inside and outside of the cell. This is maintained by the active transport of ions across the cell membrane, creating an electrochemical gradient.
Depolarization occurs when the cell membrane becomes more permeable to sodium ions, allowing them to rapidly enter the cell. As a result, the inside of the cell becomes more positively charged, shifting the electrical potential from negative to positive. This change in potential triggers an action potential, which is the basis for electrical signaling in nerve cells.
In neurons, depolarization plays a vital role in the process of transmitting information. It allows an electrical signal to travel along the axon of the neuron, eventually reaching the synapse where neurotransmitters are released. In muscle fibers, depolarization is a necessary step for the initiation of muscle contraction.
Depolarization can be both spontaneous or induced by external factors such as sensory stimuli or neurotransmitters. It is an essential process in various physiological functions, including nervous system function, muscle contraction, and the regulation of electrical activity in the body.
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The destruction, neutralization, or change in direction of polarity.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DEPOLARIZATION
Etymology of DEPOLARIZATION
The word "depolarization" originated from the combination of two distinct terms: "de-" and "polarization".
1. "De-" is a prefix derived from Latin and means "reversing" or "undoing". It is often used to indicate the removal, negation, or depletion of something. For example, in "decaffeinate", it means to remove caffeine, and in "deactivate", it means to make something inactive.
2. "Polarization" comes from the noun "polarize", which is derived from the adjective "polar". The term "polar" originally comes from Latin "polus" meaning "end of an axis", which in turn comes from Greek "polos" meaning "pivot" or "axis". In physics and electromagnetism, the term "polarization" refers to the alignment of electric field vectors in a specific direction.
Similar spelling word for DEPOLARIZATION
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