PSYC 1020H Chapter 3: The Biological Bases of Behaviour

• School: Trent University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 1020H
• Professor: Kateryna Keefer

Document Summary

Neurons cells that make up the nervous system; specialized in communicating information: most communicate amongst each other low number are involved with the outside world soma/cell body contains cell nucleus. Axon fibre that transmits signals away from cell body. Myelin sheath insulates some axons; speeds up signal relay; comprised of glial cells. The neural impulse: using energy to send information. The neuron at rest resting potential negative charge of a neuron at rest; environment more positive. Neuronal cell membrane is semipermeable; some ions (na2+, k+, cl-) can diffuse in/out. Action potential shift in neuronal electrical charge due to stimulation; travels along axon rapid flow of na2+ into the neuron causes the neuron to be less negative or even positive. Absolute refractory period the minimum length of time before next action potential can trigger; ~1-2 milliseconds relative refractory period period in which neuron can fire but requires a more intense electrical charge.