The experiment that produced the graphs in figure 12.13 is described as the most remarkable in the book. I suppose it is the most remarkable because showing that the action potential of an intact axon is identical to that of an axon with replaced internal contents proves that: a) the internal contents of the axon do not matter and b) there must be some way for the ions thought to be responsible for the action potential to enter the axon. Could that way be the ion channels?
My perspective on why this is the most important fiugre in the book is here
ReplyDeletehttp://condensedconcepts.blogspot.com/2009/10/are-you-nervous-its-just-physics.html
After reading your post I realise that my point a) is wrong. The concentration of potassium ions is important. What effect does altering the concentration of potassium inside the axon have?
ReplyDelete