Ch.2 Brain & Behavior Flashcards
What is a Dendrite?
A branch-like structure that receives chemicals from the perceiving/sending neuron
Define a Neuron
An individual nerve cell
What is a Soma?
The main body of a neuron or other cell with electrical charger particles inside
What is a Axon?
The main trunk of the neuron. Its fiber that carries info away from the cell body of a neuron. Has a gap that electric ions pass in and out through
How many gaps does an axon have and what are they?
2 gaps.
- Nodes of Ravier
- Synapse: gap between two neurons
What is the Myelin Sheath?
The outer layer of a neuron
What is it called when the Myelin Sheath is destroyed?
Multiple Sclerosis
Define Action Potential
When neurons are stimulated. Begins at -50 millivolts (mv)
How many millivolts is it, when neurons are at rest?
-70mv
Define Synapse
The gap between two neurons
What is a Neurotransmitter?
Any chemical released by a neuron that alters activity in other neurons
Name some Neurotransmitters (6)
Serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, acetylcholine, GABA, and endorphins
Serotonin
Mood, appetite, and sleep
Too little = depression
Norepinephrine
Arousal and vigilance/cautious, and mood
Dopamine
Motivation, reward, and planning behavior; feel good chemical
*Too much = delusion, hallucination = schizophrenic
Acetylcholine
Controls muscle contractions when released. Movement, autonomic function, learning, and memory (Alzheimer’s).
If blocked, paralysis
GABA
When released, person is relaxed/calm. Effect in CNS, participates in mood.
Anti-anxiety med
What is CNS and what does it consist of?
Central Nervous System, consists of the brain and spinal cord
What is PNS?
Peripheral Nervous System, nerve that carries info to and from CNS
Name the systems of the PNS
Somatic and Autonomic
Somatic Nervous System
Nerves under voluntary control (such as movement)
Autonomic Nervous System
Nerves not under your control. Divided into 2 parts
Name the parts of the Autonomic Nervous System within the PNS
Sympathetic and Parasympathetic nervous systems
Sympathetic nervous system
“Flight or flight”
Chemicals release = adrenaline
Parasympathetic nervous system
After the crisis/situation. Quiets the body