Nervous System and Tissue

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to the organization and functions of the nervous system, including neuron structure and communication.

Sensation

The process of receiving information through sensory receptors.

Integration

The combining of sensory information with higher cognitive functions, achieved by association areas in the brain.

Effectors

Muscles or organs that respond to signals from motor neurons.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Consists of the brain and spinal cord, housed within the cranial and vertebral cavities.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

Nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord, providing communication between the CNS and the rest of the body.

Neurons

Cells capable of communication within the nervous system.

Glial Cells

Cells that provide structure, support, and maintenance to neurons.

Afferent Neurons

Also known as sensory neurons; they send information toward the CNS.

Efferent Neurons

Also known as motor neurons; they send signals away from the CNS to effectors.

Somatic Nervous System (SNS)

Part of the PNS responsible for voluntary control of skeletal muscles.

Autonomic Nervous System (ANS)

Part of the PNS responsible for involuntary control of smooth muscle, cardiac muscle, and glands, aiding in homeostasis.

Dendrites

The portion of a neuron that receives signals from other neurons.

Axon

The part of a neuron that sends signals to other neurons or effectors.

Synapse

The junction where neurons communicate with other cells.

Myelin

An insulating layer around the axon that allows for faster transmission of electrical signals.

Resting Membrane Potential

The electrical charge difference across the neuronal membrane when the neuron is at rest, typically around -70 mV.

Graded Potentials

Small changes in membrane potential that can vary in size and can lead towards or away from threshold.

Action Potential

A large, rapid change in membrane potential that travels down an axon, triggered when the membrane reaches a certain threshold.

Threshold Potential

The critical level of depolarization at which an action potential is initiated, typically around -55 mV.

Refractory Period

The period after action potential generation during which a neuron cannot initiate another action potential.

Chemical Synapse

A junction between neurons where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.

Excitatory Postsynaptic Potential (EPSP)

A graded potential that makes the postsynaptic neuron more likely to fire an action potential.

Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential (IPSP)

A graded potential that makes the postsynaptic neuron less likely to fire an action potential.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released from neurons that transmit signals across a synapse.