Spatial summation

Spatial summation is a way of achieving action potential in a neuron which involves input from multiple cells. Spatial summation is the algebraic summation of potentials from different areas of input, usually on the dendrites. Summation of excitatory postsynaptic potentials allows the potential to reach the threshold to generate an action potential, whereas inhibitory postsynaptic potentials can prevent the cell from achieving action potential.

See also

• Temporal summation
• Shunting
• Length constant