Chapter 4

Question 1

Neural plasticity

Answer 1

The ability of the brain’s neural structure or function to be changed by experience through the lifespan.

• lifelong
• child’s brain is more flexible than an adults brain
• children recover and learn quicker
• some parts of the brain more flexible than other parts

Question 2

Synaptic plasticity

Answer 2

Refers to the ability of the synapse to change over time.

Changes that may occur are: the growth and formation of synapses, strengthen and weaken of synapses or elimination synapses.

Question 3

Long term potentiation

Answer 3

Refers to the long lasting strengthening of synaptic connections resulting in enhanced more effective synaptic transmission.

• due to repeated stimulation of neurotransmitters
• post synaptic neuron becomes more responsive to the presynaotic neuron

Question 4

Long Term Depression

Answer 4

The long lasting decrease in strength of synaptic connections.

• results from lack of stimulation or prolonged low levels of stimulation
• important for pruning unwanted synaptic connections

Question 5

Role of glutamate in synaptic plasticity

Answer 5

Glutamate promotes the growth and strengthening of synaptic connections between neurons within neural pathways representing the memory of what has been learned.

• acts on 2 glutamate receptors on the post synaptic neuron:
  AMPA prepares post synaptic neuron to accept glutamate and the clears out for NMDA to accept it

NMDA produces long lasting changes in the synapse

Prolonged release of glutamate prompts the growth of dendritic spines, making the post synaptic neuron more sensitive to future firing.

Question 6

Role of adrenaline:

Answer 6

It is a neurohormone that can enhance the consolidation of long term memories of emotionally arousing experiences.

-emotionally arousing experiences are more likely to be
remembered
-the memories associated with these events are usually vital for survival

-it is released during heightened emotional arousal which activates the amygdala which signals to the hippocampus that the event it significant and long term memory storage needs to be strengthened. Other parts of the brain involved in consolidation are also signalled.

Question 7

Consolidation

Answer 7

The biological process of making a newly formed memory stable and enduring after learning.

• it needs time (approx 30 minutes) and no disruption
• time is required to allow the new information to consolidate as a durable long term memory
• two stages: initial rapid process for temporary storage, slower more permanent stage for long term storage.