Which term describes summation when multiple sub stimuli converge on a neuron at the same time?

Which term describes summation when multiple sub stimuli converge on a neuron at the same time?

• A. Temporal summation
• B. Spatial summation
• C. Stimulus
• D. Response

Answer: (B)

Spatial summation describes how multiple subthreshold inputs arriving at different locations on a neuron can combine their depolarizations when they occur around the same time, increasing the chance that the axon hillock reaches threshold to trigger an action potential. Each input produces a small EPSP, and when several are happening concurrently at distinct synapses, their effects add up across space to influence the neuron's membrane potential. Temporal summation, by contrast, involves inputs arriving in rapid succession at the same location, summing in time rather than across space. A stimulus is any input the neuron may receive, while a response is the neuron's output, such as firing an action potential.

Spatial summation describes how multiple subthreshold inputs arriving at different locations on a neuron can combine their depolarizations when they occur around the same time, increasing the chance that the axon hillock reaches threshold to trigger an action potential. Each input produces a small EPSP, and when several are happening concurrently at distinct synapses, their effects add up across space to influence the neuron's membrane potential. Temporal summation, by contrast, involves inputs arriving in rapid succession at the same location, summing in time rather than across space. A stimulus is any input the neuron may receive, while a response is the neuron's output, such as firing an action potential.