causes a change in the membrane potential of a neuron. This change in potential triggers the opening of voltage-gated ion channels, allowing ions such as sodium and potassium to flow into and out of the neuron. This creates an electrical current that travels down the length of the neuron, causing the release of neurotransmitters at the synapse and transmitting the signal to the next neuron. This process continues along a chain of neurons, allowing the nerve impulse to travel rapidly through the nervous system.
