Unit 2

Question 1

Describe the function of the synapse in neural communication.

Answer 1

The synapse is the gap between the terminal button of one neuron and the next neuron, functioning like an on and off switch to connect the two neurons.

Question 2

How does the myelin sheath contribute to neural function?

Answer 2

The myelin sheath is a thin protein layer that acts as an insulator for nerve fibers, enhancing the speed of electrical signals

Question 3

Define the role of the axon in a neuron.

Answer 3

transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, facilitating communication between nerve cells.

Question 4

What is the main function of the cell body in a neuron?

Answer 4

The cell body is the central structure of a neuron that contains the nucleus and is responsible for centralizing, organizing, and channeling stimulation.

Question 5

Explain the significance of the nucleus in a neuron.

Answer 5

The nucleus is the architect of the cell, containing genes and DNA that provide essential information for manufacturing proteins and determining the characteristics of the cell.

Question 6

Describe the function of dendrites in neural communication.

Answer 6

Dendrites are located at the end of a neuron and are responsible for receiving information and stimulating communication between neurons through electrochemical signals.

Question 7

What are neurotransmitters and their role in the brain?

Answer 7

Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that facilitate communication between nerve cells by crossing the synapse and binding to receptors on the next neuron through dendrites.

Question 8

How does dopamine function in the brain?

Answer 8

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in emotional arousal, voluntary movements, learning, and memory.

Question 9

Describe the two hemispheres of the brain and their functions.

Answer 9

The brain is divided into the right and left hemispheres, each responsible for different functions. The left hemisphere is associated with language and speech, logical and analytical thinking, mathematics, and sequential processing. The right hemisphere is responsible for visual-spatial skills, creativity, artistic abilities, and maintaining attention.

Question 10

How do the left and right hemispheres communicate with each other?

Answer 10

The left and right hemispheres communicate through a structure called the corpus callosum.

Question 11

Define brain lateralization.

Answer 11

Brain lateralization refers to the specialization of the two hemispheres of the brain for different tasks.

Question 12

What is the role of the left hemisphere in motor control?

Answer 12

The left hemisphere controls motor movements on the right side of the body.

Question 13

What is the role of the right hemisphere in motor control?

Answer 13

The right hemisphere controls motor movements on the left side of the body.

Question 14

How many neurons does the human brain consist of?

Answer 14

The human brain consists of about 86 billion neurons.

Question 15

What is the significance of the cerebrum in the brain?

Answer 15

The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and is involved in various higher brain functions.

Question 16

Define nature in the context of brain development.

Answer 16

Nature refers to genetic inheritance and biological factors that impact brain development.

Question 17

Give examples of how genetics can influence brain development.

Answer 17

Genetics can influence traits such as intelligence, temperament, and the potential for certain abilities or talents, as well as predispose individuals to mental health conditions.

Question 18

How can inherited conditions affect brain function?

Answer 18

Inherited conditions, such as genetic disorders like Down syndrome or Huntington’s disease, can affect brain structure and function.

Question 19

Define nurture in the context of brain development.

Answer 19

Nurture encompasses environmental factors and experiences that influence brain development.

Question 20

What impact do childhood experiences have on brain development?

Answer 20

Childhood experiences, including learning, social interactions, and attachment, play key roles in shaping the brain.

Question 21

How can education and enrichment affect cognitive abilities?

Answer 21

Stimulating environments, such as access to books and educational activities, can enhance cognitive abilities.

Question 22

What negative effects can stress and trauma have on brain development?

Answer 22

Chronic stress or trauma can negatively impact brain development, particularly in areas related to emotional regulation.

Question 23

How does environmental enrichment influence neuroplasticity?

Answer 23

Environmental enrichment can enhance neuroplasticity, strengthening connections between neurons and improving cognitive skills.

Question 24

What role do social experiences play in brain structure?

Answer 24

Social experiences and learning significantly affect brain structure and development.

Question 25

Describe the two types of cells found in the brain.

Answer 25

The two types of cells in the brain are neurons and glial cells.

Question 26

Define neurons and their role in the nervous system.

Answer 26

Neurons are nerve cells that serve as the basic building blocks of the nervous system, responsible for receiving and sending messages.

Question 27

How do glial cells support neurons?

Answer 27

Glial cells provide physical support and protection for neurons, help maintain the blood-brain barrier, and create myelin, which insulates axons.

Question 28

What are the components of the nervous system?

Answer 28

The nervous system is composed of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, all made up of neurons organized into billions of cells.

Question 29

Differentiate between the central and peripheral nervous systems.

Answer 29

The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system includes neurons and the rest of the body.

Question 30

Explain the function of sensory neurons.

Answer 30

Sensory neurons transmit information from the environment, such as detecting a cool breeze or pain, to the brain.

Question 31

What is the role of motor neurons?

Answer 31

Motor neurons transmit commands from the brain to glands and muscles, often through the spinal cord.

Question 32

Describe the function of interneurons.

Answer 32

Interneurons connect other neurons with each other and are primarily found in the brain and spinal cord.

Question 33

How do changes in electricity affect the nervous system?

Answer 33

Changes in electricity within neurons can impact the overall functioning of the nervous system.

Question 34

Describe the primary functions of the Parietal Lobe.

Answer 34

The Parietal Lobe processes sensory information such as touch, temperature, and pain, contributes to spatial awareness and navigation, aids in understanding language and math, and connects sensory input to form a complete picture of surroundings.

Question 35

Describe the functions of the brain stem.

Answer 35

The brain stem regulates vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, controls reflexes like blinking, manages sleep-wake cycles and consciousness, and connects the brain to the spinal cord to transmit signals.

Question 36

Define the role of the cerebellum

Answer 36

Coordination - Movement, Speech
* Balance, posture
* Motor learning - Leaning new motor skills
* timing, precision ensures accurate & smooth movements

Question 37

Define the role of the Occipital

Answer 37

• Process visual info
• Interprets visual signals from the eyes
• Helps recognize objects, shapes, and pattern
• Visual memory

Question 38

Define the role of the Temporal Lobe

Answer 38

Auditory processing = Interprets sound e language
* Memory formation: Helps store long-term memories
- Facial recognition
* Emotional regulation: play role in understanding & processing emotions.

Question 39

Define the role of the Frontal Lobe

Answer 39

Decision making: planning , problem solving
* Emotional control: manages emotions & social behaviours
* Movement: Controls voluntary muscle movement
* speech production
* Personality: shapes behavior