Chapter Two - Biology and Psychology Flashcards
What is a neuron?
A specialized cell of the nervous system that sends and receives eletrochemical signals. Bundled together they create nerves.
What is the structure/funtions of a neuron? (5)
Cell body Dendrites Axons Myelin sheath Synapse
What are neurotransmitters?
Chemicals that move from nueron to neuron affecting our mental health and emotions.
What are some examples of neurotransmitters?
AcH: helps with memory
Dopamine: pleasure, movement, learning, memory
Norepinephrine: speeds heartbeat, arousal, memory, eating
Serotonin: arousal, sleep
GABA: anxiety
Endorphins: pain control, exercise
What are the two main parts of the nervous system?
Central (spinal cord and brain) and peripheral (somatic and autonomic)
What does the somatic nervous system control?
sensory and motor neurons
What does the autonomic nervous system control?
glands, muscles, heartbeat, respiration, digestions, dilation
How does the sympathetic nervous system work?
Fight or flight, uses energy, inhibits digestion
How does the parasympathetic nervous system work?
Calms us, restores energy, stimulates digestion
What is the structure of the brain?
Hindbrain (medulla, pons, cerebellum, reticular formation) - bodily functions
Forebrain (thalamus, hypothalamus, limbic system, cerebrum, cerebral cortex)- thinking & emotions
What are the left and right brain responsible for?
Left brain = logic, intellect, language
Right brain = creativity, intuition, emotion
What is neuroplasticity?
Our brain’s ability to change throughout its life span, influenced by behaviour
What is a monozygotic twin and Dizgotic twin?
Monozygotic = identical, developed from one egg, share genetic code
Dizgotic = fraternal, developed from two eggs, share 50% genetic code
