How does hyperpolarization affect threshold potential?

Answer 1

Hyperpolarization is the last stage of an action potential. For our purposes, we will consider an action potential in a neuron.
After repolarization, potassium channels remain open longer and the resting membrane potential keeps becoming lower.

Because potassium is a positively charged ion, or cation, it is leaving the cell, which means that the neural membrane will become more negative as a result. Eventually, this hyperpolarization situation will be resolved as the sodium/potassium active pumps compensate and return the membrane to its normal (-90mV) resting membrane potential.

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Answer 2

Logan Allen

Hyperpolarization increases the membrane potential, making it more negative. This increases the distance from the resting membrane potential to the threshold potential, making it more difficult for an action potential to be initiated. Therefore, hyperpolarization makes it less likely for the threshold potential to be reached.

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Answer from HIX Tutor

When evaluating a one-sided limit, you need to be careful when a quantity is approaching zero since its sign is different depending on which way it is approaching zero from. Let us look at some examples.