Local Potentials.

1. Stimulation of neuron by chemical, light, heat, or mechanical distortion.
2. Stimulation alters permeability of various ions thus leading to a change in resting membrane potential. Increased Na⁺ permeability results in a depolarization. Increased K⁺ or Cl^- permeability results in a hyperpolarization.
3. Local potentials are graded; that is, they vary in magnitude.
4. Local potentials are decremental; that is they get weaker the farther they spread from the point of stimulation.
5. Local potentials are reversible. If the stimulation ceases, the membrane potential drifts back to resting membrane potential without affecting the cell.