Nervous System, Neurons, and Brain Anatomy

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering the components and transmission of the nervous system, neuron anatomy and synapses, the primary divisions of the brain, and the structures of the hindbrain and brainstem.

How does the nervous system transmit messages throughout the body?

The nervous system carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body through nerve cells called neurons.

Approximately how many neurons are found in the brain and spinal cord?

There are over $86\text{ billion}$ neurons in our brain and spinal cord.

Why do neurons require a continuous supply of oxygen, and what happens if that supply is lost?

Neurons require oxygen to properly function; when they lose oxygen through physical damage to the brain or spinal cord, they no longer function and cannot regrow.

How many main components make up each individual neuron?

There are $6$ components that make up each neuron.

What is the primary function of the neuron's cell body?

The cell body produces energy for the cell.

What are dendrites and how many are present in each neuron?

There are $100$ dendrites in each neuron; their role is to receive impulses and conduct them to the cell body.

Where is the nucleus of a neuron located and what is its role?

The nucleus is located at the center of the cell body and is essential for the growth of developing neurons.

What is an axon and what is its role in neuronal communication?

The axon is a thin fiber that carries messages away from the cell body and connects neurons so that they can communicate.

What is the myelin sheath and how does it affect signal transmission?

The myelin sheath is a protective coating around the axon; the stronger the sheath, the higher the speed of transmissions.

What is the function of the axon terminal?

The axon terminal transports messages to the next connecting neuron via its dendrites.

What is a synapse?

The synapse is the junction where the axon terminal of one neuron meets the dendrites of another neuron.

What are neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that carry impulses across the synapse.

What are the three major parts of the brain?

The three major parts of the brain are the hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain.

What vital bodily functions are regulated by the hindbrain?

The hindbrain regulates vital functions such as breathing, heart rate, movement, and sleep.

What sensory processes are primarily associated with the midbrain?

The midbrain is mostly associated with vision and hearing.

What cognitive functions is the forebrain responsible for?

The forebrain is responsible for memory and learning.

Where is the brainstem located and what does it connect?

The brainstem is located at the lowest part of the brain and connects the brain to the spinal cord.

What types of functions does the brainstem regulate?

The brainstem regulates automatic survival functions such as breathing and consciousness.

What is the Latin meaning of "medulla oblongata" and what does it describe?

It is Latin for "elongated middle," which describes the shape and location of the medulla.

Where is the medulla oblongata specifically located?

The medulla oblongata is located at the very bottom of the brainstem.

Which two body systems are unified at the medulla oblongata, and what processes do they control?

The cardiovascular (heart) and respiratory (breathing) systems link together into a united system at the medulla oblongata to control heart rate, breathing, and blood circulation.

What is the Latin meaning and anatomical location of the pons?

Pons is Latin for "bridge" and is located directly on top of the medulla.

What are the primary functions of the pons?

The pons links to the upper portion of the brain, helps coordinate movement, and influences sleep and dreaming.

What is the reticular formation?

The reticular formation is a complex network of nuclei and neurons.