Spatial summation is the convergence of postsynaptic potentials coming from different locations. Temporal summation is the convergence of postsynaptic potentials that arrive at different periods of time, but close enough such that the summation is strong.

Spatial vs Temporal Summation

Local potentials are graded responses that diminish with increasing time and distance from the point of stimulation. Local potentials may be a form of postsynaptic potential.  

Local Potentials

The fact that a stronger stimulus elicits a stronger signal. If there are a greater number of EPSPs compared to IPSPs , a stronger signal will be sent compared to if there were an equal amount.

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

A change in the electrical potential of the membrane due to the binding of neurotransmitters in the synapses. These potentials determine whether a neuron fires or not.

Postsynaptic Potentials

Breedlove, S. & Watson, N. (2017). Behavioral neuroscience, eighth edition. Oxford University Press.

Behavioral Neuroscience 8th Edition

A postsynaptic potential that depolarizes the membrane.

Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential (EPSPs)

A postsynaptic potential that hyperpolarizes the membrane.

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