This painting illustrates the process of an action potential through the metaphor of an ocean wave. When stimulated, cells depolarize as depicted by yellow-orange dots representing sodium ions entering. This depolarization triggers an action potential likened to a wave cresting and traveling along the neuronal pathway. After firing, the cell repolarizes, symbolized by purple dots representing potassium ions exiting the cell.
The choice of colors for sodium and potassium ions is inspired by their hues in a flame test, adding a visual layer to their biochemical roles. In the background, neurons—excitable cells specialized for transmitting electrical signals—are depicted firing action potentials. This artwork captures the dynamic and essential nature of neural communication, transforming complex physiological processes into a captivating visual narrative of cellular activity.
