What occurs during repolarization in a neuron?

Repolarization in a neuron refers to the process that restores the membrane potential to a more negative value after depolarization, which is the influx of sodium ions that temporarily makes the inside of the neuron more positive. During repolarization, potassium ions move out of the neuron. This efflux of positively charged potassium ions helps to bring the membrane potential back toward the resting state, making the inside of the cell less positive (more negative) compared to the outside.

This process is crucial for the proper functioning of neurons, allowing them to reset their electrical state after an action potential has occurred. As potassium ions exit, the neuron's interior regains its negative charge, which is necessary for the neuron to be ready for the next action potential. This mechanism is tightly controlled by ion channels in the membrane, specifically voltage-gated potassium channels that open in response to changes in membrane potential during the action potential.