Neurons and Neural Firing

Unit 1.3.A: Differentiate among the subsystems of the human nervous system and their functions. Unit 1.3.B: Explain how the basic process of neural transmission is related to behavior and mental processes. Unit 1.3.C: Explain how psychoactive drugs affect behavior and mental processes.

Soma

The cell body, which contains all the DNA,

and other essential parts for keeping the neuron alive

Axons

A neuron's long projection that transmits electrical impulses from the cell body to other cells, covered by the fatty myelin sheaths

Myelin sheaths

A fatty insulating layer that surrounds the axon of a neuron, significantly increasing the speed at which electrical impulses (action potentials) are transmitted along the axon.

Synapses

Junctions between neurons where information is transmitted (axon terminal

Schwann cells

Produce myelin for the myelin sheath, with the Nodes of Ranvier being the spaces between them

Nodes of Ranvier

The spaces between Schwann cells.

Glial cells

Support cells in the nervous system that assist with various functions such as support, providing homeostasis, removing waste during sleep, and maintenance of neurons.

Major parts of a neuron

Reflex arc of the Spinal Cord

A neural pathway that mediates automatic responses to stimuli. Sensory neurons transmit information; some reactions occur when these neurons reach only the spinal cord

Sensory/Afferent neurons