excitability

Excitability is the ability of nerve or muscle cells to respond to stimuli by generating electrical signals or impulses. When a cell is excitable, it quickly detects a trigger—like a touch, a chemical, or a nerve signal—and reacts by producing an electrical change across its membrane. This rapid response allows signals to travel along nerves or cause muscles to contract, enabling functions like movement, sensation, and communication within the body. Essentially, excitability is the cell’s readiness to detect and respond to messages, essential for proper nervous and muscular system functioning.