Psychology 1000 Lecture Notes - Lecture 3: Axon Terminal, Sodium Channel, Action Potential

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 1000
• Professor: Dr.Mike

Document Summary

Contains biochemical structures needed to keep the cell alive. Nucleus carries genetic information that determines how cell develops and functions: dendrites. Collect messages from neighbouring neurons and send them to cell body: axon. Extends from one side of cell body (signal travels down) Conducts electrical impulses away from cell body to other neurons/muscles/glands. Branches out at its end to form many axon terminals. Functions of neurons supported by glial cells: surround neurons and hold them in place, manufacture nutrient chemicals, form myelin sheath around axons, absorb waste materials, blood-brain barrier prevents many toxins from entering the brain. Neurons do 2 things: generate electricity that creates nerve impulses, release chemicals and allow them to communicate with other neuons/muscles/glands. Neurons have a resting potential of -70 millivolts, creating a state of polarization. Neurons are surrounded by a salty liquid environment which has a high concentration of sodium ions.