polarity

(noun)

The spatial differences in the shape, structure, and function of cells. Almost all cell types exhibit some sort of polarity, which enables them to carry out specialized functions.

Related Terms

  • neural impulse
  • resting potential
  • action potential

Examples of polarity in the following topics:

  • Stages of the Action Potential

    • The action potential is a rapid change in polarity that moves along the nerve fiber from neuron to neuron.
    • As these positive ions rush in, the membrane of the stimulated cell reverses its polarity so that the outside of the membrane is negative relative to the inside.
  • Body-Oriented Psychotherapies

    • Light therapy (also known as phototherapy or heliotherapy) consists of exposure to daylight or to specific wavelengths of light using polychromatic polarized light, fluorescent lamps, or very bight, full-spectrum light.
  • Neurotransmitters

    • A neuron has a negative charge inside the cell membrane relative to the outside of the cell membrane; when stimulation occurs and the neuron reaches the threshold of excitement this polarity is reversed.
  • Nature vs. Nurture

    • Today, developmental psychologists rarely take such polarized positions (either/or) with regard to most aspects of development; instead, they investigate the relationship between innate and environmental influences (both/and).
  • Explaining Mood Disorders

    • Cyclothymia is considered to be a milder or subthreshold form of bipolar disorder, with the two polar states being dysthymia and hypomania (as opposed to depression and mania in bipolar disorder).
  • Overview of Personality Assessment

    • The MBTI measures individuals across four bi-polar dimensions:
  • The Five-Factor Model

    • Most people lie somewhere in between the two polar ends of each dimension.
  • Mechanics of the Action Potential

    • Additional sodium rushes in, and the membrane of the stimulated cell actually reverses its polarity so that the outside of the membrane is negative relative to the inside.
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