Psychology 2e - Chapter 3

What is homeostasis?

A state of equilibrium in which biological conditions are maintained at optimal levels

What are some forms of homeostasis?

Body temp, blood-glucose levels, fluid + electrolyte balance, blood pressure.

What is the peripheral nervous system consist of?

The somatic & autonomic nervous systems

What kind of neurons go through the Somatic Nervous System?

Motor and sensory neurons.

What is the definition of epigenetics?

The study of how your behavior and environment can cause changes that affect how your genes work, without changing DNA sequence.

What is a semipermeable membrane?

The outer surface of a neuron which allow smaller molecules to pass through it, while stopping large molecules.

What are some functions of the myelin sheath?

Coating an axon, acting as an insulator and accelerating signal travel.

What is a synaptic cleft?

A small space between two neurons for communication and transporting neurotransmitters.

How do receptors bind to cells?

They travel across the cleft and bind to receptors on the dendrite with a key-lock mechanism.

What is acetylcholine known for?

muscle action, memory

What are the effects of acetylcholine?

+Arousal +Cognition

Whats the effect of beta-endorphin?

Pain + pleasure

What is the effect of beta-endorphin?

+Anxiety -Tension

What are efferent fibers?

Fibers that move away from the central nervous system.

What are afferent fibers?

Fibers that move towards the central nervous system.

What is an example of a efferent fiber?

Motor neurons

What is an example of an afferent fiber?

Sensory information