MCAT Biology Question 51: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 51

6. When a sensory neuron receives a stimulus that brings it to threshold, it will do all of the following EXCEPT:

  • A. become depolarized.
  • B. transduce the stimulus to an action potential.
  • C. inhibit the spread of the action potential to other sensory neurons.
  • D. cause the release of neurotransmitters onto cells in the central nervous system.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

When a sensory neuron receives a signal that is strong enough to bring it to threshold, one can assume that the receptor becomes depolarized, allowing it to transduce the stimulus to an action potential. The action potential will then be carried by sensory neurons to the central nervous system, where the cell will release neurotransmitters. Therefore, among the given choices, the only incorrect statement is found in choice (C). If a receptor is stimulated, it will promote the spread of the action potential to postsynaptic sensory neurons in the spinal cord, which can send the signal toward the brain.

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