Nerve Signal Conduction

Flashcards covering key concepts related to nerve signal conduction, including definitions and details regarding the action potentials and neuron communication.

Neurotransmitters

Chemicals released by neurons to carry electrical signals between them.

Action Potential

The process of conducting nerve signals; an electrical impulse that travels along the axon.

Sodium/Potassium Pump

A membrane protein that moves sodium ions out and potassium ions into the neuron, maintaining the resting membrane potential.

Resting Membrane Potential

The state of a neuron when it is not transmitting an impulse; typically around -70 mV.

Depolarization

The phase of action potential when sodium ions rush into the cell, making the inside positive.

Repolarization

The recovery phase after depolarization, where potassium ions exit the cell and the membrane potential returns to resting state.

Refractory Period

The time required for the sodium/potassium pump to restore resting ion concentrations after an action potential.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons, where neurotransmitters are released.

Presynaptic Neuron

The neuron that releases neurotransmitters into the synapse.

Postsynaptic Membrane

The membrane on the receiving end of a synapse that contains receptors for neurotransmitters.

Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that plays a key role in transmitting signals in the nervous system.

Central Nervous System

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