Untitled Flashcards Set

Cerebrum

The largest part of the brain responsible for higher mental functions, sensory and motor processing.

Diencephalon

Part of the brain that includes structures like the thalamus and hypothalamus, involved in sensory and endocrine functions.

Brainstem

The part of the brain that regulates visceral activities and connects the brain to the spinal cord.

Cerebellum

Coordinates muscle movements and maintains posture.

Corpus Callosum

A bundle of nerve fibers connecting the two cerebral hemispheres.

Cauda Equina

A bundle of spinal nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord.

Central Canal

A cerebrospinal fluid-filled space in the center of the spinal cord.

Ventricles

Cavities in the brain containing cerebrospinal fluid.

Nerve Plexus

A network of nerves formed by the anterior branches of spinal nerves.

Cervical Plexus

Controls muscles and skin of the neck; includes the phrenic nerve for the diaphragm.

Brachial Plexus

Controls muscles and skin of the arms, forearms, and hands.

Lumbosacral Plexus

Controls muscles and skin of the lower abdomen, legs, and pelvic area.

Multipolar Neurons

Neurons with multiple extensions; most common type. Motor neurons

Bipolar Neurons

Neurons with two extensions; found in sensory organs.

Unipolar Neurons

Neurons with a single extension; commonly sensory neurons.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse.

Resting Potential

The charge difference across a neuron’s membrane when it is not transmitting a signal.

Action Potential

A rapid change in electrical charge that occurs when a neuron fires.

Reflex Arc

A neural pathway that controls a reflex action.

Meninges

The three protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Dura Mater

The outermost layer of the meninges.

Arachnoid Mater

The middle layer of the meninges, named for its spiderweb-like appearance.

Pia Mater

The innermost layer of the meninges, closely adhering to the surface of the brain and spinal cord.

Saltatory Conduction

The jumping of electrical impulses between nodes of Ranvier in myelinated axons.

Refractory Period

The time during which a neuron cannot generate another action potential.

Sympathetic Division

Part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the 'fight or flight' response.

Parasympathetic Division

Part of the autonomic nervous system that promotes 'rest and digest' functions.