Processes

Question 1

Neuroplasticity

Answer 1

The brain’s ability to alter it’s own structure in response to internal or external stimuli by rearranging it’s neural connections.

Question 2

Dendritic Branching

Answer 2

The growth/branching of neural dendrites in the case of learning new information to connect with other neurons.

Question 3

LTP

Answer 3

Synapses becoming stronger due to repeated use, due to longer periods of depolarization on the post-synaptic membrane.

Question 4

Synaptic Pruning

Answer 4

A process a neural synapse goes through when it’s under-stimulated due to a lack of potentiation as a result of discontinued behavior, a way for the brain to remove synaptic connections and extra neurons that are no longer needed.

Question 5

Neurotransmission

Answer 5

The process by which neurons send electrochemical messages through the electrical impulse of action potential that travels along the neuron’s axon and releases neurotransmitters stored in the neuron’s terminal buttons. These neurotransmitters are released into the synaptic gap and later fit into receptor sites on the post-synaptic membrane to fulfill certain functions.