neural communication

Question 1

the synapse

Answer 1

the site of neural communication

Question 2

voltage

Answer 2

• basically potential energy
• the difference between the inside and outside of the cell (electrically)

Question 3

neuronal communication is CHEMICAL

Answer 3

• the result of two ions (sodium & potassium)
• chemical because of the movement of these ions as they move in and out of the cell

Question 4

neuronal communication is ELECTRICAL

Answer 4

• electrical because the ions are charged (pos/neg)
• potassium & sodium are positively charged
• as these ions move in and out of the cell they change the potential (voltage) at the membrane
• the cell goes from pos to neg

Question 5

plasma membrane

Answer 5

• keeps things from moving in & out
• only certain ions can cross this membrane via channels and pumps

Question 6

CHANNELS

Answer 6

• allows passive diffusion
• ions move in and out themselves, cannot control or actively push the ions
• ions move long a chemical gradient

Question 7

PUMPS

Answer 7

• actively push ions
• requires ATP (bcos energy is required)