Биология Flashcards
What is a synapse?
The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.
What are mitochondria?
Organelles that produce energy in the form of ATP for the neuron.
What are vesicles with biologically active substances?
Small sacs that contain neurotransmitters necessary for communication between neurons.
What is the synaptic cleft?
The space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes.
What is gray matter?
A collection of neuron cell bodies.
What is white matter?
A collection of neuronal axons.
Define a sensory neuron.
A neuron that perceives stimuli and transmits nerve impulses.
Define an interneuron.
A neuron that acts as a mediator between sensory and motor neurons.
Define a motor neuron.
A neuron that conducts impulses from the brain or organs to muscles or glands.
What comprises the central nervous system?
The spinal cord and the brain.
What is included in the peripheral nervous system?
Nerves, ganglia, and nerve endings outside the CNS.
What is the somatic nervous system responsible for?
Conscious control of skeletal muscle activity.
What does the autonomic nervous system regulate?
Unconscious control of internal organ functions.
What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?
- Sympathetic (active state)
- Parasympathetic (resting state)
What is a reflex?
A stereotypical response of the organism to external stimuli or internal changes.
What are unconditional reflexes?
Reflexes that are inherited.
What are conditional reflexes?
Reflexes acquired through life experience.
What are the two types of reflex arcs?
- Simple (sensory and motor neurons)
- Complex (sensory, interneuron, and motor neurons)
What is the function of the spinal cord?
Reflexive actions, conduction of impulses, regulation of organ functions.
How many pairs of nerves are associated with the spinal cord?
31 pairs.
What are the functions of the medulla oblongata?
- Reflexive (coughing, sneezing, breathing)
- Conductive (sending impulses between the brain and organs)
What is the role of the pons?
Conductive functions and facial expressions.
What is the function of the midbrain?
Processing visual and auditory information.
What do the superior colliculi do?
Process visual information.
