Neural Communication (Module 9)

Question 1

Biological Psychology

Answer 1

Concerned with the links between biology and behavior.

Question 2

Neuron

Answer 2

A nerve cell.

Question 3

Dendrite

Answer 3

Extensions of a neuron that receives incoming messages and impulses them toward the cell body.

Question 4

Axon

Answer 4

Transfers messages to other neurons

Question 5

Myelin Sheath

Answer 5

Encasing the fibers of many neurons

Enables a vastly greater transition speed.

Question 6

Action Potential

Answer 6

A neural impulse. A brief electrical charge that travels down an axon.

Question 7

Refractory Period

Answer 7

After a neuron fires an action potential is pauses for a short period to recharge

Question 8

Sodium-Potassium Pumps

Answer 8

Pump positive ions out from the inside of the neuron, making them ready for another action potential.

Question 9

Depolarization

Answer 9

Occurs when positive ions enter the neuron, making it more prone to firing an action potential.

Question 10

Hyperpolarization

Answer 10

Occurs when negative ions enter the neuron, making it less prone to firing an action potential.

Question 11

Threshold

Answer 11

Level of stimulation required to trigger a neural impulse.

Question 12

All-Or-None Response (Toilet)

Answer 12

Neurons either fire or they don’t

If the depolarizing current fails to exceed the threshold, a neuron will not fire.

Question 13

Synapse

Answer 13

Junction between the axon tip of the sending neuron and the receiving neuron.