This chapter introduces the physical principles underlying the models of electrical activity of neurons. Starting with the neuronal cell membrane, we explore how its permeability to different ions and the maintenance by ionic pumps of concentration gradients across the membrane underpin the resting membrane potential. We show how these properties can be represented by an equivalent electrical circuit, which allows us to compute the response of the membrane potential over time to input current. We conclude by describing the integrate-and-fire neuron model, which is based on the equivalent electrical circuit.
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