Where does depolarization primarily occur during the stimulation process?

Depolarization primarily occurs under the cathode during the stimulation process. When an electrical stimulus is applied to the tissue, the cathode, which has a negative charge, attracts positive ions, such as sodium (Na+), towards it. This movement of ions across the cell membrane causes the interior of the cell to become more positive relative to the exterior, leading to depolarization.

This process is essential for the generation of an action potential, allowing the cell to respond to stimuli effectively. In contrast, the anode does not primarily contribute to this process, as it typically results in hyperpolarization rather than depolarization. The pulse generator serves to produce the electrical signals but is not where depolarization occurs; rather, it's the source of the electrical current delivered to the tissue. Depolarization does not occur in the tissue layers themselves but rather at the specific sites where electrical currents are applied, most notably under the cathode.