Biological Bases of Behavior Flashcards
What is the function of the Neuron?
nerve cell responsible for receiving and transmitting information in electrical
and chemical forms.
Fundamental building blocks nervous system.
What is the function of MYELIN SHEATH?
fat wrapped around the axons of some neurons, which increases the rate nerve impulses travel along the axon.
What is the function of Action Potential
brief electrical impulse by which information is transmitted along the axon of a neuron
What is the ALL-OR-NOTHING LAW
principle that either a neuron is sufficiently stimulated and an action potential occurs or a neuron
is not sufficiently stimulated and an action potential does not occur.
What is the function of ENDORPHINS?
Chemical substances in the nervous system that reduce the perception of pain.
What are NEUROTRANSMITTERS?
Chemical transmitters manufactured by a neuron.
What is the function of SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM?
produces rapid physical arousal in response to
perceived emergencies or threats.
What is the function of PARASYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM?
calms the body, maintains bodily functions, and
conserves energy.
What is the function of HYPOTHALAMUS?
helps govern the release of hormones by the pituitary
gland and regulates drives such as hunger and thirst.
What is the function of CEREBRAL CORTEX?
regulates most complex behavior, including
sensations, motor control, and higher mental processes such as decision making.gg
What is the function of CEREBRAL HEMISPHERES?
The nearly symmetrical left and right halves of the cerebral cortex. The left hemisphere specializes
in verbal and analytical functions. The right hemisphere focuses on nonverbal abilities such as art
and music and visual recognition tasks.
What is the function of CORPUS CALLOSUM?
bundle of nerve fibers connecting the brain’s left and right hemispheres.
In a procedure known
as split-brain surgery, neurosurgeons cut the corpus callosum to prevent the spread of epileptic
seizures by disrupting communication between the right and left hemispheres.
What is the function of AMYGDALA?
regulation of emotional responses,
especially fear.
What is the function of HIPPOCAMPUS?
learning and forming
new memories.
