Biopsychology 10/15

Question 1

What are Neurons?

Answer 1

• Specialised cells that carry neural information

Question 2

What is the role of the Sensory Neuron?

Answer 2

• Carries nerve impulse from sensory receptor (e.g. vision, taste, smell) to CNS

Question 3

What is the role of the Relay Neuron?

Answer 3

• Lies between sensory input and motor output
• Allow sensory and motor neurons to communicate

Question 4

What is the role of the Motor Neuron?

Answer 4

• Located in CNS, project axons outside to control muscles
• Form synapses w/muscles and control contractions
• Releases neurotransmitters which bind to receptors and trigger response

Question 5

What is Synaptic Transmission?

Answer 5

• Process by which nerve impulse passes across synaptic gap from presynaptic neuron to postsynaptic neuron
• Impulse reaches end of axon which has synaptic vesicles containing neurotransmitters that allow transfer of impulse

Question 6

What are Excitatory Neurotransmitters?

Answer 6

• Nervous systems ‘on’ switches, increase likelihood of neuron ‘firing’
• When one binds with a postsynaptic receptor an electrical change occurs in cell membrane, results in excitatory post-synaptic potential (EPSP) → meaning post-synaptic cell more likely to fire

Question 7

What are Inhibitory Neurotransmitters?

Answer 7

• Nervous systems ‘off’ switches, decrease likelihood of neuron firing
• Responsible for calming mind and body, induce sleep and filter unnecessary excitatory neurotransmitters