Neuron Structure and Function Flashcard

Front

What is the Resting Potential in a neuron?

Back

The Resting Potential is the electrical charge difference across the neuron's membrane when it is not actively transmitting a signal, typically around -70mV.

Front

What is the sequence of events in a nerve impulse?

Back

1. A stimulus brings the dendrite end of the neuron to threshold. 2. Na+ voltage gates open, making the inside of the cell positive. 3. K+ voltage gates open while Na+ gates close, making the inside negative again. 4. The sodium-potassium pump reestablishes the concentration of ions for resting potential.

Front

Define a nerve impulse.

Back

A nerve impulse is an electric signal that passes through neurons, allowing communication within the nervous system.

Front

What happens when enough ligands bind to ligand-gated channels in a resting neuron?

Back

Sodium voltage-gated channels open, leading to the generation of an action potential.

Front

What occurs when the axon is stimulated?

Back

The resting potential becomes an action potential, allowing the transmission of the nerve impulse.

Front

What is the role of the sodium-potassium pump?

Back

The sodium-potassium pump helps maintain the resting potential by actively transporting Na+ out of the cell and K+ into the cell.

Front

What is depolarization in the context of a neuron?

Back

Depolarization is the process by which the membrane potential becomes less negative (more positive) due to the influx of Na+ ions.

Front

What is hyperpolarization?

Back

Hyperpolarization is when the membrane potential becomes more negative than the resting potential, often due to the efflux of K+ ions.

Front

What is an action potential?

Back

An action potential is a rapid, temporary change in the membrane potential of a neuron that allows for the transmission of a nerve impulse.

Front

What is the function of dendrites in a neuron?

Back

Dendrites receive signals from other neurons and transmit them toward the cell body.