Exam specific answers

Question 1

describe the process of synaptic transmission? (3)

Answer 1

electrical impulses travel along the pre-synaptic neuron
the impulse reaches the synaptic vesicles to release a neurotransmitter
the neurotransmitter molecules diffuse across the synaptic gap and attach to receptors

Question 2

explain one strength and one weakness of PET scanning? (4)

Answer 2

strength - PET scans are a valid measurement of brain activity as they provide a detailed image of brain activity during the completion of a task
weakness - involve injecting radioactive glucose tracer into participants which is dangerous, so this limits the number of times they can be used with the same participants