Biopsychology - Neurons Flashcards
What is a neuron?
A nerve cell that is the basic building block of the nervous system. They communicate through electrical and chemical messages to enable us to move, think, feel and direct organs.
What is the function of the nucleus?
The control centre of the neuron which contains DNA.
What is the function of the dendrites?
Receives signals from other neurons.
What is the function of the Node of Ranvier?
Speeds up transmission by making the action potential jump.
What is the function of the axon?
Conducts electrical impulses away from the neuron’s cell body.
What is the function of the axon terminal?
Makes connections with other dendrites of other neurons or muscle (effector).
What is the function of Schwann cells?
Produce the myelin sheath.
What is the function of myelin sheath?
Fatty layer that insulates the neuron and speeds up electrical impulses.
What is action potential?
An electrical signal that passes along the neuron. It only travels in one direction, from the dendrites, along the axon to the axon terminal.
What are the three types of neuron?
Sensory neuron
Relay neuron
Motor neuron
What is the role of the sensory neuron?
Carries messages from the Peripheral nervous system to the Central nervous system. Receives a message from the stimulus.
Long dendrites and short axons.
What is the role of the relay neuron?
Connects the sensory neurons to the motor neurons or other relay neurons. These are only found in the CNS.
Short dendrites and short axons.
What is the role of the motor neuron?
Connects the CNS to effectors such as muscles and glands to bring about an action.
Short dendrites and long axons.
What is the process of a reflex arc?
Stimulus. Pain receptor stimulated. Signal sent along sensory neuron. Signal passed along relay neuron. Signal sent along motor neuron. Effector muscle contracts.
