Lecture Notes on Biology and Behavior

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the biology of behavior as discussed in the lecture.

Sensory Neurons

Afferent sensory neurons transmit sensory information from the spinal cord to the brain.

Motor Neurons

Efferent motor neurons carry motor information from the brain to the spinal cord and muscles.

Interneurons

Neurons that mediate reflexive behavior in the brain and spinal cord.

CNS

The central nervous system, comprising the brain and spinal cord.

PNS

The peripheral nervous system, which includes nerve tissue fibers and spinal and cranial nerves.

Autonomic Nervous System

Regulates involuntary functions such as heartbeat and digestion.

Sympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic system that activates the body’s fight or flight response.

Parasympathetic Nervous System

Part of the autonomic system that conserves energy and regulates rest functions.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Fluid produced by the ventricles of the brain, absorbed by the meninges.

Limbic System

Brain structures associated with emotion and memory.

Cerebral Cortex

The outer covering of the hemispheres associated with cognitive functions such as language and problem-solving.

Basal Ganglia

Structure in the forebrain that coordinates muscle movement.

Hippocampus

Brain region primarily involved in learning and memory.

Amygdala

Brain structure involved in defensive and aggressive behavior.

Frontal Lobe

Region of the brain managing executive functions and voluntary movement.

Occipital Lobe

Region of the brain that contains the visual cortex.

Wernicke's Area

Region associated with language reception and comprehension.

Pituitary Gland

The master gland of the endocrine system, controlled by the hypothalamus.

Adrenal Glands

Glands located on top of the kidneys that produce hormones.

GABA

An inhibitory neurotransmitter that stabilizes neural activity.

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter involved in movement and posture regulation.

Glutamate

An excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.