Neurons and Synapses Flashcards

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Note: We may include questions that have multiple correct answers. It's useful to remember specific examples to understand these concepts better.

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What is a neuron?

A nerve cell that carries electrical impulses in the brain and body.

What does a sensory neuron do?

It carries information from sense organs to the central nervous system (CNS).

What does a relay neuron do?

It links neurons inside the CNS, passing messages between sensory and motor neurons.

What does a motor neuron do?

It carries signals from the CNS to muscles or glands to make a response.

What are dendrites and what do they do?

They are branch-like parts that receive impulses from other neurons.

What is the axon?

A long fibre that carries the impulse away from the cell body to the axon terminals.

What is the myelin sheath and why is it useful?

A fatty layer around the axon that insulates it and makes impulses travel faster.

What is a synapse?

The tiny gap between neurons where they pass signals using chemicals.

What is a neurotransmitter?

A chemical messenger that carries a signal across a synapse.

How does a message pass across a synapse?

An impulse reaches the end of the first neuron. Tiny sacs release the neurotransmitter into the gap. It crosses and fits receptors on the next neuron. This starts a new impulse.

What is the difference between excitatory and inhibitory effects?

Excitatory makes the next neuron more likely to fire. Inhibitory makes it less likely to fire.

What usually happens to neurotransmitters after the signal?

They are taken back into the first neuron (reuptake) or broken down by enzymes.