• Question: how is electricity created in the brain

    Asked by matthewbowmer to Damien, Rachael, Simon, Suzi, Tim on 21 Jun 2011. This question was also asked by matrix123, moemoemoe.
    • Photo: Rachael Ward

      Rachael Ward answered on 21 Jun 2011:

      Hi matthewbowmer

      The neurons of the brain use electrically charged chemicals called ions to create electricity. Sodium and potassium, calcium and chloride are the ions that are important in neurons.

      By normally having different concentrations of these ions on its inside and outside, the neuron has a certain resting state we call a resting potential. This is negative as more negative ions are inside the cell than outside. However, when it needs to transmit an electrical signal or action potential, the sodium ions rush in to neuron, making the charge of the neuron more positive (as sodium ions are positive) and therefore creating an electrical signal. Clever system isnt it?!

      I hope this helps answer your question

    • Photo: Suzi Gage

      Suzi Gage answered on 21 Jun 2011:

      Hi @matthewbowmer
      Rachael’s written a brilliant answer here.

      When the electrical impulse gets to the end of the neuron, it causes chemicals to be released across the gap between neurons. These chemicals then get taken up in to the next neuron, and the impulse continues!

      Hope this helps!

    • Photo: Tim Fosker

      Tim Fosker answered on 21 Jun 2011:

      Hi @matthewbowmer and @matrix123

      A great answer from Rachael! I can’t add anything I’m afraid. However, there is a great video explaining action potentials on YouTube.

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCasruJT-DU

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