What is a critical consideration in the design of electrodes for electrophysiological measurements?

In the design of electrodes for electrophysiological measurements, optimizing conductivity while minimizing noise is crucial. This is because electrodes must efficiently transmit the electrical signals generated by neuronal activity while avoiding interference from external noise or artifacts that can distort the readings. High conductivity allows for better signal capture, improving the overall quality of the measurements. At the same time, it’s important to use materials and designs that minimize resistance and noise, ensuring that the signals are as clear and accurate as possible. By achieving this balance, electrodes can provide reliable data essential for analyzing physiological functions.

While factors like cost, size, and noise sensitivity may play roles in the overall design process, they do not address the fundamental need for both effective signal conductivity and noise reduction, which directly impacts the integrity of electrophysiological measurements.