Question

Explain what a neuron's dynamic range is and why it is important for neural function and coding. Include in your answer the advantages and disadvantages for large and small dynamic ranges

Answer 1

1.Dynamic range is the interval in case of stimulus–response relation over which a power-law or Stevens law can be synchoronized. Large neurons or wide neurons are capable of giving long range responses for numerous stimuli. Despite of its seeming advantages, this over excitation of the neurons can result in chronic pain. Narrow dynamic range is have high sensitivity and characterized as the the neuron model without auxiliary cells.

2. Neurotransmitters are rleased when the action potential arrive at axon terminal and releases into the synaptic cleft which then interact with receptor proteins on the membrane of the postsynaptic cell. It leads to eitheropenign or closing of  ionic channels on the membrane depend upoin type of NTs and summation of EPSP and IPSP. When channels get open by binding of NTs, depolarization occurs, resulting in the initiation of another action potential.

3. Coding of stimulus intensity in 2 ways:

1) Frequency coding- Firing rate of sensory neurons increases with increased intensity

2) Population coding- Increase in the primary afferents response.

The baility to localize the stimulus is called as acuity based on the receptive field size and receptor density. There is a correlation between the intensity of a stimulus and the ability to localize it..