How does an impulse travel in a myelinated neuron?

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1050870

2026-05-13 20:10

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In a myelinated neuron, an impulse travels via a process called saltatory conduction. The myelin sheath, which insulates the axon, allows the action potential to jump between the nodes of Ranvier—gaps in the myelin. This jumping significantly increases the speed of impulse transmission compared to unmyelinated neurons, as it minimizes the depolarization of the membrane and reduces the time needed for the entire length of the axon to depolarize. Consequently, myelinated neurons conduct impulses more efficiently and rapidly.

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