Biological Bases for Behavior

Mind-Heart Connection

The previous misconception that the mind was located in the heart.

Localization of Brain Functions

The previous belief that certain parts of the brain controlled specific functions, which has been proven to be partially incorrect.

What have we learned from the last century

The understanding that the brain is wired by experiences, and that nerve cells communicate with each other through electrical signals.

Neuron Components

dendrites, axons, cell body, and myelin sheath

Myelin Sheath function

speed up neural impulses.

Glial Cells

Supportive cells in the brain that play a role in memory, thinking, and learning, in addition to supporting neurons.

Action Potential

An electrical charge that travels down the axon, creating a neural impulse.

Speed of Neural Impulses

Neural impulses can travel at speeds ranging from 2 to 200 mph.

Selective Permeability

The property of the axon's surface that allows only certain substances to pass through.

How is an action potential created?

When excitatory signals exceed inhibitory signals, an action potential is created.

Refractory Period

A period of rest that follows an action potential, during which a neuron cannot fire.

True

T or F: A stronger stimulus can trigger more neurons to fire, but it does not make a single neuron fire faster or stronger.

Synaptic Cleft

The small gap between two neurons where they communicate with each other.

Neurotransmitters

Chemical messengers that allow communication between two neurons by crossing the synaptic cleft and binding to receptor sites on the receiving neuron.

Reuptake

The reabsorption of neurotransmitters by the sending neuron.

Influence of Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters have different capabilities and functions that influence various aspects of brain function.

Effects of Drugs and Chemicals

Drugs and chemicals can affect the brain by either exciting or inhibiting a neuron's firing ability.