Psych 120: Biological Bases of Behaviour

A set of flashcards to help review key concepts of the Biological Bases of Behaviour in Psych 120.

What are the main parts of a neuron?

The main parts of a neuron are dendrites, soma (cell body), axon, myelin sheath, and terminal buttons.

What is the function of dendrites?

Dendrites receive information from other cells.

What does the axon do?

The axon is a long, thin fiber that transmits neural impulses away from the soma.

What is the purpose of the myelin sheath?

The myelin sheath is an insulating layer that speeds up the transmission of neural impulses.

Define resting state in terms of neuronal activity.

In resting state, the neuron maintains a membrane potential of approximately -70 mV.

What happens during an action potential?

During an action potential, Na+ ions rush in and K+ ions are pumped out, raising the membrane potential.

What is the absolute refractory period?

The absolute refractory period is the time after an action potential during which the neuron cannot fire again.

What are postsynaptic potentials?

Postsynaptic potentials are changes in the membrane voltage of a neuron after receiving a neurotransmitter.

What role do neurotransmitters play?

Neurotransmitters transmit signals across the synapse from one neuron to another.

What is an agonist?

An agonist is a substance that increases the activity at receptor sites.

What is an antagonist?

An antagonist is a substance that decreases the activity at receptor sites.

List two functions of acetylcholine.

Acetylcholine is important for movement and attention.

What disorders are associated with dopamine?

Dopamine is associated with Parkinson's disease and reward-seeking behavior.

What is norepinephrine's primary function?

Norepinephrine is involved in mood and arousal, especially in response to new stimuli.

What are endorphins?

Endorphins are endogenous morphine-like substances that regulate pain and produce a sense of well-being.

Differentiate between the central and peripheral nervous systems.

The central nervous system (CNS) consists of the brain and spinal cord, while the peripheral nervous system (PNS) includes all nerves outside the CNS.

What are the two divisions of the autonomic nervous system?

The two divisions of the autonomic nervous system are the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

What is the role of the thalamus?

The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information.

What is the primary function of the hippocampus?

The hippocampus is crucial for the formation and consolidation of memories.

What are the primary functions of the frontal lobe?

The frontal lobe is responsible for higher-order functions, executive control, and motor functions.

What is long-term potentiation?

Long-term potentiation is a process where repeated stimulation of neurons strengthens synaptic connections, facilitating learning.