Questions: Happens and now the two neurons differ. The electrodes are now in the middle of the neurons, so you can clearly see differences in the speed of action potential propagation. How do the two neurons compare? The AP travels faster in the myelinated neuron. The myelinated neuron generates more action potentials. The shape of the action potential near the stimulation site is different. Check Answer 18 / 23

The answer is the first one: The AP travels faster in the myelinated neuron.

Explanation for each option:

1. The AP travels faster in the myelinated neuron.

   • This statement is correct. Myelination increases the speed of action potential propagation due to saltatory conduction, where the action potential jumps from one node of Ranvier to the next, bypassing the myelinated sections of the axon. This results in faster transmission compared to unmyelinated neurons.

2. The myelinated neuron generates more action potentials.

   • This statement is incorrect. Myelination affects the speed of action potential propagation, not the frequency of action potential generation. The frequency of action potentials is determined by the properties of the neuron and the strength of the stimulus, not by myelination.

3. The shape of the action potential near the stimulation site is different.

   • This statement is incorrect. The shape of the action potential itself is generally consistent regardless of myelination. Myelination affects the speed and efficiency of propagation, not the fundamental shape of the action potential.

In summary, the primary difference between the two neurons in terms of action potential propagation is the speed, with myelinated neurons conducting action potentials faster.