Synapses and reflexes

Question 1

What is a synapse

Answer 1

A gap between two neurones

Question 2

How are nerve signals transferred over a synapse

Answer 2

It is turned from electrical impulses to a chemical neurotransmitter which is then transferred across the gap by diffusion. The chemicals then set off a new electrical signal in the next neurone

Question 3

What are reflexes

Answer 3

Automatic responses to certain stimuli

Question 4

What is a reflex action

Answer 4

A fast response where the brain is not involved

Question 5

What is the point of a reflex action

Answer 5

To protect the body against damage

Question 6

Explain the reflex action

Answer 6

1 Receptors detect a change in stimulus
2 Electrical impulse sent along the sensory neurone
3 Electrical impulse from sensory neurone to the relay neurone and to the spinal cord
4 Electrical impulse send along the motor neurone
5 Effector takes the appropriate action to protect the body

Question 7

Explain the reflect action with context of a hot pan

Answer 7

1 Skin receptors detect a change in stimulus - temperature
2 Electrical impulse sent along the sensory neurone
3 Electrical impulse from sensory neurone to the relay neurone and to the spinal cord
4 Electrical impulse send along the motor neurone
5 Muscle takes the appropriate action to protect the body and contracts to move hand away from the pan

Question 8

What are the two effectors and their actions

Answer 8

Glands - produce a hormone

Muscle - contracts to move away from the potential danger

Question 9

Example of a glandular reaction

Answer 9

Adrenaline release