Biopsychology Definitions Flashcards
Action potential
A spike in electric charge in an axon caused by sodium ions crossing the cell membrane
Adrenal Glands
Small glands on top of each kidney produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.
Adrenaline
A key hormone in the stress response that is produced by the adrenal gland and increase heart rate
Autonomic nervous system
Sub-division of the peripheral nervous system that controls involuntary responses
Axon
A single long slender fibre that carries the nerve impulse away from the body
Axon terminal
The very end of the axon contains neurotransmitters and makes synaptic contact with the next neurone in the chain
Central nervous system
sub-system of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal chord
Dendrites
root-like structures protruding from the cell body that receive signals from other neurones
Endocrine system
A collection of Glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream to act upon target organs
Excitation (depolarisation)
Occurs when an NT increases the positive charge of a postsynaptic neurone, this increases the likelihood that the neurone will fire and pass on the electrical impulse.
Fight or flight response
The way an animal responds to stress as it becomes physiologically aroused to fight an aggressor or run away
Hypothalamus
Part of the brain that links the nervous system to the endocrine system. Releases hormones that stimulate the pituitary gland
Inhibition (Hyperpolarisation)
Occurs when an NT increases the negative charge of a postsynaptic neurone, this decreases the likelihood that the neuron will fire and pass on the electrical impulse.
Motor neurone
Carries signals from the CNS to effectors
Nervous system
Body system consisting of CNS and PNS that provides rapid response to stimuli
