chapter 2 Flashcards
Q: What is the main function of dendrites in a neuron?
A: receive signals from other neurons and bring information into the neuron.
Q: What role do axons play in a neuron?
A: Axons send signals out to other neurons, muscles, or glands.
Q: Give an example of how dendrites function in everyday life.
A: When you touch something hot, dendrites help pass along the signal that your hand feels heat.
Q: How do axons contribute to your response after touching something hot?
A: The axon sends a signal to your muscles to pull your hand away after receiving the signal that something is hot.
Q: What is the refractory period in neural activity?
A: the short time after a neuron fire when it can’t fire again immediately, ensuring signals are sent in the right order.
Q: What happens during depolarization in a neuron?
A: Depolarization occurs when a neuron becomes less negative inside, getting closer to firing an action potential (sending a signal).
Q: What occurs during hyperpolarization in a neuron?
A: when the inside of the neuron becomes more negative than its resting state, making it less likely to fire a signal.
Q: What is the role of the sodium-potassium pump when a neuron is at rest?
A: maintains the balance of ions inside and outside the neuron, keeping the inside of the neuron more negative than the outside.
