AP Psych Unit 2: Biology

Neurons

Specialized cell in the nervous system that receives and sends messages with electrochemical signals

Glial cells

Cells that provide physical support for the neurons to grow on and around (glue)

90% of the brain is composed of glial cells

Soma “Life Support”

The cell body of the neuron responsible for maintaining the life of the cell, contains nucleus

Dendrites “Antenna”

Part of neuron, branch-like extensions that receives electrical messages from other cells.

Axon “talker”

Fiber that extends from the cell body to the terminal endings, its job is to carry messages out to other cells.

Myelin Sheath

Layer of fatty substance produced by certain glial cells, wraps around the axon to protect the nerve fiber from damage, insulating sheath, speeds up the neural message.

Axon Terminals

Tips at the end of the axon, send signals to other neurons.

Terminal Buttons/synaptic knobs

Synapse “contact point”

Meeting point between neurons

Synaptic Gap

Less than a millionth of an inch wide

Receptor Sites

Receive signals