A&P Final

What are the three main types of neurons?

sensory neurons, interneurons, motor neurons

What is the function of the myelin sheath?

insulates axon of a neuron so impulses travel faster

What is the main role of the central nervous system (CNS)?

processes and coordinates all activities.

What part of the neuron receives incoming signals?

dendrites

Name two types of glial cells and their functions.

• Astrocytes support neurons by maintaining the blood-brain barrier

• Schwann cells form the myelin sheath around neurons

Which part of the brain controls balance and coordination?

cerebellum

What is the function of the spinal cord?

main pathway for communication, and controls reflexes

What is a synapse?

gap between two neurons

Describe the path of a reflex arc and name each part involved.

• Receptor detects stimulus.

• Sensory neuron carries impulse to spinal cord.

• Interneuron connects.

• Motor neuron sends response.

• Effector carries out the response.

Explain the role of neurotransmitters in synaptic transmission.

When impulse reaches axon, neurotransmitters occupy receptor sites .

What is resting membrane potential, and how is it maintained?

-65 mV, sodium-potassium pump

Outline the steps of an action potential, including ion movement.

• Resting: Membrane is at -70 mV.

• Upswing: Na in

• Downswing: K out

• Back to Balance

What is the difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Somatic : voluntary

Autonomic: Involuntary

Compare the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions in terms of effect on heart rate, pupils, and digestion.

Sympathetic: heart rate increase, pupils dilate, digestion decreases.

Parasymathetic: heart rate slows, pupils constrict, stimulate digestion

What happens if a neuron loses its myelin sheath (e.g., in multiple sclerosis)?

slow down or stop impulses

Predict the effect of a spinal cord injury at the thoracic level.

Paralysis or weakness in Lower body, difficulty sending motor or sensory impulses below.

Why is the medulla oblongata considered vital for survival?

controls unconscious functions

How do the hypothalamus and pituitary gland work together to maintain homeostasis?

triggers secretion of pituitary gland

A patient cannot speak but understands language. What brain area might be damaged?

Broca’s area

Explain how a drug that blocks dopamine receptors might affect the nervous system and behavior.

decreased motivation, sad, block receptor sites