biopsychology Flashcards
what is the nervous system?
specialised network of cells + is the primary internal communication system which is based on chemical + electrical signals.
what is the nervous systems two main functions?
- to collect process + respond to info in the environment
- to co-ordinate the working of different organs + cells in the body
describe the brain (CNS)
- centre of all conscious awareness
- brains outer layer (cerebral cortex) only 3mm thick + covers brain
- divided into 2 hemispheres
what are the 2 subsytems which the NS can be divided into?
1.) CNS (Central Nervous System)
2.) PNS (Peripheral Nervous System)
describe the spinal cord (CNS)
- extension of brain
- passes messages to + from the brain
- connects nerves to PNS
- responsible for reflex actions
what is the endocrine system?
one of the body’s major information systems that instructs glands to release hormones into the bloodstream.
what are hormones?
chemical substances which circulate in the bloodstream and only affect target organs. they are produced in larger quantities but disappear quickly. Their affects = powerful
what is a gland?
an organ in the body that syntheisises substances such as hormones.
what are the main glands of the the endocrine system?
- pituitary ➜ controls release of ALL hormones
- thyroid
- adrenals
- pancreas
- ovaries
- testes
what happens during the sympathetic state?
- increased heart rate
- increased breathing rate
- dilated pupils
- inhibits digestion
- inhibits saliva production
- contracts rectum (GYAAATTTT)
what happens during the parasympathetic state?
opposite to sympathetic state
- decreased heart rate
- decreased breathing rate
- constricts pupils
- stimulates digestion
- stimulates saliva producction
- relaxes rectum (um what the gyatt)
what is the autonomic nervous system?
transmits information to and from bodily organs. System operates involuntarily. 2 main subdivisions = parasympathetic + sympathetic
explain fight or flight
when a stressor is perceived hypothalumus activates pituitary gland + triggers sympathetic state. Adrenaline is then released from the adrenal gland and triggers physiological changes needed for the fight or flight response. Once the threat has passed the body returns to the parasympathetic state aka rest + digestion response.
what are the 3 types of neurons?
1.) sensory
2.) relay
3.) motor
Describe the process of synaptic transmission (4 marks)
Electrical impulses (action potential) reach presynaptic terminal. Electrical impulses (action potential) trigger release of neurotransmitters (e.g. serotonin) from synaptic vesicles. Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synaptic cleft. Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.
