Which type of potential decreases the chance of a neuron firing?

Inhibitory potentials play a crucial role in neural communication by reducing the likelihood that a neuron will fire an action potential. When an inhibitory potential occurs, it typically results from the opening of ion channels that allow negatively charged ions to enter the neuron or positively charged ions to exit. This creates a hyperpolarized state, making the inside of the neuron more negatively charged relative to the outside.

As a result of this hyperpolarization, the threshold for triggering an action potential is increased, meaning that a stronger stimulus would be required to overcome this threshold and initiate firing. This mechanism is essential for regulating neural activity and ensuring that neurons do not fire excessively, which is important for maintaining proper functioning within the nervous system. In contrast, excitatory potentials enhance the chances of a neuron firing by depolarizing its membrane potential. Resting potentials refer to the stable state of the neuron when it is not firing, while action potentials are the actual electrical impulses generated when a neuron does fire.