Chapter 2 The Role of Biology Flashcards
Describe structures of a neuron (axon, cell body, dendrite, terminal buttons)
Axon - long, narrow outgrowth from cell body that transports info. Made of fatty layer called myelin sheath.
Cell body - where info is collected and integrated
Dendrite - branchlike extensions with receptors that detect info from other neurons.
Terminal buttons - release chemicals from the neuron into the synapse.
Define synapse and explain the importance of neurotransmitters in sending messages.
Synapse - the space between neurons and site of communication.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that cross the tiny gap between the sending neuron and the dendrites of the receiving neurons.
Briefly describe the peripheral and central nervous systems.
CNS - consists of nerves in the brain and spinal cord
PNS - Connects CNS to rest of body
Define the influence of drugs that are agonists and drugs that are antagonists on neurotransmitters
Agonists - it mimics a neurotransmitter and enhances the actions of a neurotransmitter.
Antagonists - inhibits the actions of neurotransmitters
Briefly describe what techniques are used to study the brain in modern research : EEG, fMRI, TMS
EEG - measures electrical activity under the skull.
fMRI - measures changes in blood oxygen levels
TMS - uses very fast and magnetic field to momentarily disrupt activity in a specific brain region.
Describe the role of the hindbrain and midbrain
- Hindbrain responsible for vital life functions and coordination while midbrain is responsible for sensory processing and motor control.
Explain the functions of the hypothalamus, hippocampus and amygdala.
Hypothalamus- regulation of body functions (for example, sleep and motivation)
Hippocampus- formation of new memories
Amygdala- association of emotions with experiences.
Describe major functions of the occipital, parietal, frontal and temporal lobes.
Occipital lobe - responsible for vision
Parietal lobe - sensory and motor input
Temporal lobe - processes auditory information and perceiving objects and faces
Frontal lobe - movement and complex processes (social processes and rational thought)
Explain the function of the prefrontal cortex
- Responsible for complex cognitive functions. Crucial role in our ability to think, reason and interact with the world around us
Define the general purpose of the sympathetic system and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous and the endocrine system.
Autonomic nervous system- controls involuntary body functions like heart rate and blood pressure.
Sympathetic system -prepares the body for fight or flight by releasing cortisol
Parasympathetic system system- calms the body by inhibiting the release of cortisol.
Endocrine system- uses hormones to influence thoughts and actions.
Define plasticity of the brain
Refers to the ability of the brain to change and adapt to experiences, learning, and injury.
Discuss the nature/nurture issue and how genes and the environment influence humans
- Genes influence traits such as intelligence and personality along with certain traits or conditions but don’t guarantee their development.
- Environment influences experiences such as upbringing, education and culture. Along with gene expression