Nerves and the Nervous System Review

This set of flashcards aims to reinforce key concepts and details about the structure and function of neurons, action potentials, and synaptic transmission.

What type of neuron conducts signals from sensory organs to the central nervous system?

Sensory neuron

What is the primary function of motor neurons?

To transmit signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands.

What structural component of a neuron is responsible for integrating signals?

Soma

What is the role of dendrites in a neuron?

To receive signals from other neurons.

What standard measurement indicates the difference in charge across a neuron's membrane at rest?

Resting membrane potential.

What is the function of the myelin sheath?

To insulate the axon and increase the speed of signal transmission.

What occurs during depolarization of a neuron?

Sodium ions rush into the neuron, making the inside more positive.

What are voltage-gated ion channels responsible for?

Allowing ions to flow in and out of the neuron in response to changes in membrane potential.

What is the all-or-none principle in action potentials?

An action potential either occurs fully or does not happen at all, depending on whether the threshold is reached.

What does the Nernst equation calculate?

The equilibrium potential for a specific ion across a membrane.

What is the significance of the refractory period in neuronal signaling?

It prevents immediate re-firing of action potentials and ensures unidirectional signal propagation.

What technique is used to measure membrane potential in neurons?

Using a microelectrode.

What is the effect of neurotransmitters on the postsynaptic membrane?

They can either depolarize or hyperpolarize the membrane.

What is the primary mechanism for the transmission of signals across chemical synapses?

Release of neurotransmitters into the synaptic cleft.

What role does the Na+/K+ pump play in neuronal function?

It maintains ion concentration gradients essential for resting membrane potential and action potentials.

The _ neuron conducts signals from sensory organs to the central nervous system.

Sensory

The primary function of _ neurons is to transmit signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands.

motor

The structural component of a neuron responsible for integrating signals is the _.

soma

During _ of a neuron, sodium ions rush into the neuron, making the inside more positive.

depolarization

_ channels allow ions to flow in and out of the neuron in response to changes in membrane potential.

Voltage-gated ion