Quiz 3

Question 1

When Chloride channels open, chloride ENTERS the cell. Chloride is a negative ion. Explain the driving force for chloride entering the cell.

Answer 1

Chloride is a negative ion, and you would expect it to leave the cell, as the inside of the cell is negative. However, the concentration of Chloride inside the cell is low and therefore direction is determined by the concentration gradient more than the electrical gradient.

Question 2

Describe two functions of glial cells. BOTH functions must be correct to receive credit for this question.

Answer 2

Regulate potassium concentration, regulate pH, regulate neurotransmitter concentration in the extracellular space

Question 3

There were three types of ion channels described in class. The ion channel that requires a chemical known as a neurotransmitter to open is called what?

Answer 3

ligand-gated channel

Question 4

The rising phase of the action potential is due to

Answer 4

Na+ flow in the cell only

Question 5

The region where the axon terminal meets its target cell is called the

Answer 5

synapse

Question 6

Some neurotoxins work essentially the same way as some local anesthetics, which is to

Answer 6

bind to Na+ channels and inactivate them and prevent depolarization by blocking Na+ entry into the cell.

Question 7

The falling phase of the action potential is due primarily to

Answer 7

K+ flow out of the cell only

Question 8

The multiple thin, branched structures on a neuron whose main function is to receive incoming signals are the

Answer 8

dendrites

Question 9

Clusters of nerve cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system are called

Answer 9

ganglia

Question 10

Which ion(s) is/are higher in concentration inside the cell compared to outside?

Answer 10

potassium