Chapter 37

Question 1

Neuron

Answer 1

A nerve cell; The fundamental unit of the nervous system. Conducts signals by taking advantage of the electrical charge across its plasma membrane.

Question 2

Neurotransmitter

Answer 2

A molecule that is released from the synaptic terminal of a neuron at a chemical synapse, triggering a response.

Question 3

Sodium-potassium pump

Answer 3

A transport protein in the plasma membrane of animal cells that actively transports sodium out of the cell and potassium into the cell.

Question 4

Membrane Potential

Answer 4

The difference in electrical charge (voltage) across a cell’s plasma membrane due to the differential distribution of ions. Affects the activity of excitable cells and the transmembrane movement of all charged substances.

Question 5

Action Potential

Answer 5

An electrical signal that propagates along the membrane of a neuron or other excitable cell as a nongraded (all-or-none) depolarization.

Question 6

Synapse

Answer 6

The junction where a neuron communicates with another cell across narrow gap via a neurotransmitter or an electrical coupling.

Question 7

Acetylcholine

Answer 7

One of the most common neurotransmitters; functions by binding to receptors and altering the permeability of the postsynaptic membrane to specific ions, either depolarizing or hyperpolarizing the membrane.

Question 8

Neuropeptide

Answer 8

A relatively short chain of amino acids that serves as a neurotransmitter.