What effect do excitatory signals have on a neuron?

Excitatory signals play a crucial role in the functioning of neurons by increasing the likelihood that a neuron will fire an action potential. When excitatory neurotransmitters bind to their respective receptors on the neuron's surface, they cause a depolarization of the neuron's membrane potential. This means that the inside of the neuron becomes more positively charged relative to the outside. If the depolarization reaches a certain threshold, an action potential is triggered, leading to the propagation of electrical signals along the neuron and ultimately enabling communication with other neurons.

This process is vital for various brain activities, including reflexes, thought processes, and emotional responses. Understanding how excitatory signals facilitate neuron firing is essential in grasping the overall workings of the nervous system.