Week 2: Biological Bases of Behaviour Flashcards
What is the function of neurons?
Neurons are cells that transmit information throughout the nervous system.
What is the central nervous system (CNS)?
The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord and is responsible for processing information.
What is the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
The PNS includes all the nerves outside the CNS, connecting it to the rest of the body.
What are neurotransmitters?
Chemicals that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another.
What is the role of dopamine?
Dopamine is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure.
What is serotonin responsible for?
Serotonin helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep.
What does the amygdala control?
The amygdala is involved in processing emotions, particularly fear and aggression.
What is the function of the hippocampus?
The hippocampus is essential for forming new memories.
Define “action potential.”
An action potential is an electrical impulse that travels down the axon, triggering neurotransmitter release.
What is the myelin sheath?
A fatty layer that insulates axons, speeding up the transmission of electrical signals.
What is the synapse?
The junction between two neurons where neurotransmitters are released.
What is the role of the frontal lobe?
The frontal lobe is involved in decision-making, problem-solving, and planning.
What is the function of the parietal lobe?
The parietal lobe processes sensory information related to touch, temperature, and pain.
What does the temporal lobe control?
The temporal lobe is involved in hearing, language, and memory.
What is the primary role of the occipital lobe?
The occipital lobe processes visual information.
What is neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections.
What is the function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS)?
The ANS controls involuntary functions like heart rate and digestion.
Define “sympathetic nervous system.”
The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for ‘fight or flight’ responses.
What is the role of the parasympathetic nervous system?
The parasympathetic nervous system calms the body and conserves energy after arousal.
What is the endocrine system?
A system of glands that release hormones to regulate various bodily functions.
What is the role of the hypothalamus?
The hypothalamus regulates hunger, thirst, body temperature, and emotional responses.
What are hormones?
Chemical messengers released by glands that influence behaviour and bodily functions.
What is lateralisation of brain function?
The tendency for certain functions to be more dominant in one hemisphere of the brain.
What role does the thalamus play?
The thalamus acts as a relay station, directing sensory information to the appropriate brain regions.
What is the function of the cerebellum?
The cerebellum coordinates movement and balance.
