[Campbell Biology P.1123] What is a key difference in the behavior of voltage-gated potassium... | Practice Question

What is a key difference in the behavior of voltage-gated potassium K+ channels compared to voltage-gated sodium Na+ channels during an action potential, as described in the text?

  • A: K+ channels open more quickly than Na+ channels.
  • B: K+ channels remain open and functional for a longer duration than Na+ channels.
  • C: K+ channels contribute to the rising phase of the action potential.
  • D: K+ channels are primarily responsible for the initial depolarization to threshold.

Explanation

The text explicitly states that 'Sodium channels remain inactivated until after the membrane returns to the resting potential and the channels close. Potassium channels open more slowly than sodium channels, but remain open and functional until the end of the action potential.' This highlights the key difference in their inactivation and duration of functionality.