Synapses and Reflexes Flashcards
(areas covered: synapses, reflexes, reflex arcs, how impulses are transmitted at synapses, the benefit of reflex arcs)
1
Q
What is a synapse?
A
The gap connecting two neurones
2
Q
Impulses are transferred by chemicals which diffuse across the synapse.
What are these chemicals called?
A
Neurotransmitters
3
Q
(Exam-style question)
Explain how impulses are transmitted at synapses.
A
- An impulse reaches the end of a neurone
- The electrical impulse stimulates the release of chemicals called neurotransmitters
- Neurotransmitters diffuse across the synapse, which is the gap between two neurones
- Neurotransmitters then bind to receptors on the next neurone, stimulating an electrical impulse in the neurone
4
Q
What is a reflex?
A
An automatic and rapid response to stimuli
5
Q
What is a reflex arc?
A
The passage of information in a reflex
6
Q
State the purpose of a reflex arc.
A
To reduce the chance of being injured
7
Q
Explain why reflexes are faster than normal responses.
A
- Neurones in reflex arcs go through the spinal cord or through an unconscious part of the brain
- Therefore, reflexes are faster because you don’t have to think about the response
8
Q
(Exam-style question)
A
