generator potential

gen·er·a·tor po·ten·tial

local depolarization of the membrane potential at the end of a sensory neuron in graded response to the strength of a stimulus applied to the associated receptor organ, for example, a pacinian corpuscle; if the generator potential becomes large enough (because the stimulus is at least of threshold strength), it causes excitation at the nearest node of Ranvier and a propagated action potential.

generator potential

the nonconducted electrical charge that is developed when the sensitive part of a RECEPTOR is stimulated. The magnitude of the potential depends on the intensity of the stimulus, and when it reaches a certain threshold it may give rise to an ACTION POTENTIAL.