Chapter 3 Exam 1 (definitions)

Question 1

Action Potential

Answer 1

The electrical impulse, or activation energy, that sends a message through a neuron.

Question 2

Autonomic

Answer 2

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls the more automatic functions of the body.

Question 3

Axon

Answer 3

A part of the neuron’s cell membrane that delivers messages to other neurons and body parts.

Question 4

Central Nervous System

Answer 4

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Question 5

Diffusion

Answer 5

The process where particles dissolved in water move from high to low concentration.

Question 6

Excitatory

Answer 6

Something that causes a neuron to move closer to activation (more positive).

Question 7

Glial Cells

Answer 7

Several different kinds of helper cells that assist neurons in their role as the brain’s communicators, and provide structural support.

Question 8

Inhibitory

Answer 8

Something that causes the charge inside a neuron to move away from activation (more negative).

Question 9

Lesion

Answer 9

Areas in the brain where neurons have died. A lesion can occur for many reasons, including trauma (getting hit), drug overdose, disease, stroke, or toxic chemical exposure.

Question 10

Limbic System

Answer 10

A network of neurons and glia dedicated to regulating emotions, helping regulate endocrine activity, and forming emotional memories.

Question 11

Microglia

Answer 11

Glial (helper) cells that clean debris and get rid of germs.

Question 12

Neurons

Answer 12

Cells that communicate within the brain and with the body to form thoughts and actions. These cells code information as electrical signals, and also release chemicals that influence other neurons/organs/body parts.

Question 13

Neurotransmitters

Answer 13

Chemicals released from the end of an axon that acts as messages to other neurons and body parts. These chemicals typically bind to receptors.

Question 14

Oligodendrocytes

Answer 14

Glial (helper) cells that wrap the myelin insulation around axons in the central nervous system.

Question 15

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Answer 15

The division of your autonomic nervous system that is responsible for resting, digestion, and repairing the body.

Question 16

Peripheral Nervous System

Answer 16

Peripheral means “outer.” This is any part of the nervous system not in the brain or spinal cord.

Question 17

Reticular Activating System (RAS)

Answer 17

A network of cells in the pons and medulla that help regulate the level of awareness and alertness in humans.

Question 18

Schwann Cells

Answer 18

Glial (helper) cells that wrap the myelin insulation around axons in the peripheral nervous system.

Question 19

Sympathetic Nervous System

Answer 19

The division of your autonomic nervous system that is responsible for things we do that require excitement.