02 Biological Bases of Behavior Free Online FlashCards

What is a neuron?

A neuron is a specialized cell that receives, processes, and transmits information through neural circuits.

What are major functions of glial cells?

Glial cells support neurons by nourishing and protecting them, maintaining their chemical environment, producing myelin, removing debris, and helping organize development.

What triggers an action potential?

An action potential is a rapid electrical change that travels along an axon after stimulation reaches threshold.

What determines whether a neurotransmitter excites or inhibits?

A neurotransmitter’s effect depends on the receptor and neural circuit: it may be excitatory in one context and inhibitory in another.

What is the difference between an agonist and an antagonist?

An agonist mimics or increases the effect of a neurotransmitter, whereas an antagonist blocks or reduces that effect.

What structures make up the central nervous system?

The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord. It receives sensory information, integrates it, and coordinates responses.

What does the sympathetic nervous system do?

The sympathetic nervous system mobilizes the body during challenge or emergency, increasing arousal and readiness for action.

What is the thalamus’s main sensory role?

The thalamus is a major relay and processing center for sensory information traveling to the cerebral cortex; smell is the important exception.

How does the hypothalamus connect nervous and endocrine systems?

The hypothalamus regulates homeostasis and links the nervous system to the endocrine system by controlling the pituitary gland.

What is the sequence of the HPA axis stress response?

In the HPA axis, the hypothalamus signals the pituitary, the pituitary acts on the adrenal glands, and the adrenal cortex releases cortisol.

How does negative feedback regulate hormones?

Negative feedback reduces further hormone release when hormone levels rise sufficiently, helping maintain homeostasis.

What does heritability measure?

Heritability is the proportion of trait variation within a particular population and environment statistically associated with genetic differences.