Anatomy and Physiology final project 4

Front

What are neurotransmitters?

Back

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals across a synapse from one neuron to another, playing a crucial role in communication within the nervous system.

Front

What is the synaptic cleft?

Back

The synaptic cleft is the small gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurons where neurotransmitters are released and bind to receptors.

Front

What is action potential propagation?

Back

Action potential propagation is the process by which an electrical signal travels along the membrane of a neuron or muscle cell, allowing for communication and response to stimuli.

Front

What are receptors for neurotransmitters?

Back

Receptors for neurotransmitters are specialized protein molecules located on the postsynaptic neuron that bind to neurotransmitters, initiating a response in the neuron.

Front

How is membrane potential generated?

Back

Membrane potential is generated by the movement of ions across the cell membrane, primarily through passive leak channels and the sodium-potassium pump (Na+/K+ pump).

Front

What is a graded potential?

Back

A graded potential is a change in membrane potential that varies in size and can lead to an action potential if it reaches a certain threshold.

Front

What role do ion channels play in neurons?

Back

Ion channels are proteins that allow specific ions to flow in and out of the neuron, contributing to the generation and propagation of action potentials.

Front

What is the difference between graded potentials and action potentials?

Back

Graded potentials are variable in magnitude and can summate, while action potentials are all-or-nothing events that occur when a threshold is reached.

Front

What is the function of the sodium-potassium pump?

Back

The sodium-potassium pump actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, maintaining the resting membrane potential and cell excitability.

Front

What is the all-or-nothing principle in action potentials?

Back

The all-or-nothing principle states that once a neuron reaches the threshold potential, an action potential will occur fully; it cannot be partially fired.