Intro to nervous system

Question 1

What is the role of dendrites?

Answer 1

Receives inputs from other neurons and convey graded electrical signals passively to the soma.

Question 2

Axon function?

Answer 2

Conducts output signals as cation potentials to the presynaptic terminal.

Question 3

Synapse definition?

Answer 3

Point of chemical (usually) communication between neurons.

Question 4

What cells produce myelin for neurons?

Answer 4

Schwann Cells in PNS
Oligodendrocytes in CNS

Question 5

Electrical info/material can pass from soma (*cell body) to presynaptic terminal (anterograde/forwards) and vice versa (retrograde/backward travel).

Answer 5

True. Retrograde travel can often lead to an infection i.e. polio.

Question 6

What are the 4 types of neuron?

Answer 6

Unipolar
Pseudounipolar
Bipolar
Multipolar

Question 7

How are synapses classed?

Answer 7

Synapses are classified based on the location of the presynaptic terminal upon the presynaptic cell. Basically the location of the end of the axon in relation to the cell itself.

Question 8

Types of synapses and which one is most common?

Answer 8

Axodendritic (very common)
Axosomatic (common)
Axoaxomic (uncommon)

Question 9

What 2 factors determine the distance over which electrical current spreads in a neuron?

Answer 9

Membrane resistance
Axoplasm resistance

Question 10

What increases resistance in the neuron?

Answer 10

Narrow axon
Increased distance for current to travel (since less current leaks out).