Physiology Flashcards
Where does a chemical synapse take place?
Between axon and dendritic processes of neurons
What is the purpose of a chemical synapse?
To transmit signals between presynaptic neurons and postsynaptic targets
Where does an action potential take place?
In the neurons membrane potential caused by ions flowing in and out of the neuron.
What is the purpose of an action potential?
Central role in Cell-to-cell communication by providing signals along neurons axon
Where does the spinal reflex occur?
Central Nervous System (CNS)
What is the purpose of the spinal reflex arc?
Sends messages to the muscle telling it to contract
What is the interneuron also classified as?
Integration centre
What is a synapse?
A connection between a neuron and another cell
What chemicals are used to communicate between synapses?
Neurotransmitters
What is homeostasis?
Maintaining stability while adjusting to conditions that are best for its survival
What are some examples of homeostasis?
Blood glucose regulation and thermoregulation
What happens during Hyperpolarization in an action potential?
A change in a cell’s membrane potential that makes it more negative.
A typical neuron has a resting membrane potential of about:
-70 mV
At what membrane voltage do neuronal voltage-gated Na+ channels become activated?
−50
The spike phase of the neuronal action potential is due to:
the opening of voltage-gated Na+ channels
