Chapter 2 - Biology and Behavior Flashcards
Parts of neuron
dendrites, cell body, axon
Neurotransmitters
chemical communicators across synapse
Examples of neurotransmitters
dopamine, seratonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, endorphins
Myelin sheath
a fatty, insulating layer that wraps around the axons (nerve fibers) of neurons in the central and peripheral nervous systems
myelination
the process of forming a protective layer called the myelin sheath around the axons (nerve fibers) of neurons
Action potential
the change in electric potential that propagates along the axon of a neuron during the transmission of a nerve impulse or the contraction of a muscle.
CNS
brain and spinal chord
Parts of brain
Brainstem, Medulla, Pons, Reticular formation, Midbrain, Thalamus, Hypothalamus, Limbic system - amygdala and hippocampus, Cerebellum, Corpus callosum, Cerebral cortex
Brainstem
connects brain to spinal chord.
Medulla, Pons, Midbrain
SURVIVAL/Ancient brain
Medulla
extends from the spinal chord to the forebrain..
survival & vital functions: makes sure cardiovascular and respiratory systems are functioning properly.
Also contains nuclei for reflexive actions such as vomiting, coughing, sneezing, swallowing.
Pons
(Pons means bridge in latin)
Connects Medulla and the Midbrain.
Regulates sleep-wake cycles.
Coordinates movement between left and right sides of body.
Contains nuclei for sensations from the head and face, motor movement for the eyes, face, and mouth,
hearing
Equilibrium
Autonomic functions (tear, saliva production)
Midbrain
Part of brainstem above Pons
eye movements and visual processing.
Auditory processing.
Dopamine producing nuclei
Motivation/reward
generates movement patterns in response to stimuli
Reticular Formation
Located in the midbrain.
It’s an intricate web of neurons that is responsible for levels of arousal/consciousness. so whether you are awake, dozing off, or somewhere in between. Also filters out sensory data that isn’t important (background noise, etc.)
Cerebellum
“LIttle brain” in lattin.
A structure located behind the brainstem that is responsible for muscle coordination and balance.
hypothalamus
Keeps equilibrium.
The hypothalamus is an area of the brain that produces hormones that control:
Body temperature Heart rate Hunger Mood Release of hormones from many glands, especially the pituitary gland Sex drive Sleep Thirst