In cognitive psychology, what does the term 'action potential' refer to?

In cognitive psychology, the term 'action potential' refers specifically to an electrical impulse that travels along the axon of a neuron. This process is fundamental to how neurons communicate with one another and is essential for transmitting information throughout the nervous system. When a neuron becomes sufficiently activated by stimuli, it generates an action potential, which is characterized by a rapid rise and subsequent fall in voltage across the neuron's membrane. This electrical change allows the signal to propagate along the neuron and facilitates communication between neurons at synapses, leading to the processing of information, memory formation, and other cognitive functions.

The other options do not accurately define 'action potential.' Memory formation involves various neural processes but does not specifically relate to the electrical impulses of neurons. Visual perception is a complex cognitive process that includes many mechanisms beyond the simple action potential. A method of cognitive assessment refers to the techniques used to evaluate cognitive processes and does not involve the physiological aspect of neuron signaling. Understanding the role of action potentials is crucial in grasping how cognitive functions are grounded in biological processes.