Action Potential Cascade
The Electrical Language of Neurons
You're watching a schematic simulation of action potentials — the fundamental electrical signals that neurons use to communicate. Each flash represents the rapid voltage spike that travels down a neuron's axon, releasing neurotransmitters that diffuse through the synaptic cleft. The dynamics are inspired by the Hodgkin-Huxley model, though greatly simplified for visual clarity.
Probabilistic Transmission
Neurotransmitter particles undergo random walk diffusion after release. Each particle has a probability of activating a nearby dendrite when it comes close enough. This stochastic element captures a key feature of biological synapses: transmission is inherently probabilistic, not deterministic.
Build Your Network
Switch to "Add Neuron" mode to place new neurons. Click to add with random orientation, or click and drag to set the axon direction. Place neurons close together to form connections via neurotransmitter diffusion.
⚡ Click to stimulate neurons