Introductory Psychology (PSYC-1100) - Week 05

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to the biological bases of behavior, neuroanatomy, and neural communication as discussed in the lecture.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

The part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

The part of the nervous system made of all nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Gyri

Ridges on the surface of the brain.

Sulci

Depressions or fissures in the surface of the brain.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

A clear fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and nutrients.

Myelin Sheath

An insulating layer around axons that speeds up electrical signals in neurons.

Neurons

Specialized cells in the nervous system that transmit electrical and chemical signals.

Glial Cells

Non-neuronal cells that support and protect neurons in the nervous system.

Gray Matter

The part of the brain composed of neuronal cell bodies, responsible for processing information.

White Matter

The part of the brain made up of myelinated axons that communicate signals between brain regions.

Action Potential

A brief shift in a neuron's electrical charge that travels down the axon.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons that allows for the transfer of signals.

Resting Potential

The baseline electrical charge of a neuron when it is at rest, typically around -70 millivolts.

All-or-None Law

The principle that a neuron either fires an action potential fully or does not fire at all.

Absolute Refractory Period

The period after an action potential during which a neuron cannot fire another action potential.