Chapter 2 The Role of Biology Flashcards

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1
Q

Describe structures of a neuron (axon, cell body, dendrite, terminal buttons)

A

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.

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2
Q

Define synapse and explain the importance of neurotransmitters in sending messages.

A

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.

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3
Q

Briefly describe the peripheral and central nervous systems.

A

CNS - consists of nerves in the brain and spinal cord
PNS - Connects CNS to rest of body

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4
Q

Define the influence of drugs that are agonists and drugs that are antagonists on neurotransmitters

A

Agonists - it mimics a neurotransmitter and enhances the actions of a neurotransmitter.
Antagonists - inhibits the actions of neurotransmitters

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5
Q

Briefly describe what techniques are used to study the brain in modern research : EEG, fMRI, TMS

A

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.

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6
Q

Describe the role of the hindbrain and midbrain

A
  • Hindbrain responsible for vital life functions and coordination while midbrain is responsible for sensory processing and motor control.
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7
Q

Explain the functions of the hypothalamus, hippocampus and amygdala.

A

Hypothalamus- regulation of body functions (for example, sleep and motivation)
Hippocampus- formation of new memories
Amygdala- association of emotions with experiences.

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8
Q

Describe major functions of the occipital, parietal, frontal and temporal lobes.

A

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)

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9
Q

Explain the function of the prefrontal cortex

A
  • Responsible for complex cognitive functions. Crucial role in our ability to think, reason and interact with the world around us
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10
Q

Define the general purpose of the sympathetic system and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous and the endocrine system.

A

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.

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11
Q

Define plasticity of the brain

A

Refers to the ability of the brain to change and adapt to experiences, learning, and injury.

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12
Q

Discuss the nature/nurture issue and how genes and the environment influence humans

A
  • 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
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