all-or-none law

the principle that the amplitude of the action potential in a neuron is independent of the magnitude of the stimulus. Thus, all stimuli above the neuron’s threshold trigger action potentials of identical magnitude (although they may vary in frequency); stimuli below this threshold may produce local graded potentials but no propagated impulses. Also called all-or-none principle.

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Psychology term of the day

February 17th 2025

binocular suppression

the ability of stimulation through one eye to inhibit the response or sensitivity to stimulation through the other eye. See binocular rivalry.