Nervous System and Glossopharyngeal Nerve Flashcard

Front

What is the primary function of the glossopharyngeal nerve? Options: Vision, Hearing, Smelling

Back

Swallowing

Answer explanation

The glossopharyngeal nerve primarily facilitates swallowing by controlling muscles in the throat and providing sensory input from the tongue and pharynx, making 'swallowing' the correct answer.

Front

What is the role of an efferent neuron?

Back

To carry signals to muscles or glands

Answer explanation

Efferent neurons are responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to muscles or glands, facilitating movement and responses. Thus, the correct answer is 'To carry signals to muscles or glands'.

Front

Where are the nerves of the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) located?

Back

Outlying or peripheral parts of the body

Answer explanation

The Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) consists of nerves located in the outlying or peripheral parts of the body, connecting the central nervous system to limbs and organs, unlike the central nervous system which is confined to the brain and spinal cord.

Front

What does the Sympathetic Nervous System do?

Back

Active and alert, fight or flight

Answer explanation

The Sympathetic Nervous System prepares the body for stressful situations, activating the 'fight or flight' response, which increases alertness and energy. This is why 'Active and alert, fight or flight' is the correct choice.

Front

What is the role of the Parasympathetic Nervous System?

Back

Rest and digest, return to homeostasis

Answer explanation

The Parasympathetic Nervous System is responsible for the 'rest and digest' functions, promoting relaxation and recovery, and helping the body return to homeostasis after stress, unlike the sympathetic system which triggers 'fight or flight' responses.

Front

What is the primary function of astrocytes in the brain?

Back

To form the blood-brain barrier

Answer explanation

Astrocytes primarily function to form the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain by regulating the passage of substances between the bloodstream and the brain, ensuring a stable environment for neuronal function.

Front

Interneurons primarily function to: Connect sensory and motor neurons

Back

Connect sensory and motor neurons

Answer explanation

Interneurons primarily connect sensory and motor neurons, facilitating communication within the nervous system. They play a crucial role in reflexes and processing information, making this the correct choice.

Front

What is the function of motor neurons in the nervous system?

Back

They carry signals from the brain to muscles.

Answer explanation

Motor neurons are responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to muscles, enabling movement. This makes the first answer choice the correct one, as it accurately describes their primary function.

Front

What is the role of neurotransmitters in the nervous system?

Back

They allow impulses to jump from one neuron to another.

Answer explanation

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. They allow impulses to jump across synapses, enabling the transmission of signals throughout the nervous system.

Front

What is the primary function of the Parietal Lobe?

Back

Sensations

Answer explanation

The primary function of the Parietal Lobe is to process sensory information, including touch, temperature, and pain, making 'Sensations' the correct choice. It plays a key role in integrating sensory input.