PSYC 1101 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Pituitary Gland, Cerebellum, Corpus Callosum
Document Summary
Nerve cells specialized in communication with each other. Branchlike extensions for receiving information from other neurons: axons and axon terminals. Tail like extension protruding from the cell body. Narrowness near the cell body creates a trigger zone: synapses. Neurotransmitters enter the synapse, a fluid-filled space between neurons. First to hypothesize on the existence of synapses: glial cells. Blood brain barrier: a fatty coating that wraps around tiny blood vessels; protects it from infection by bacteria: myelin sheath. Neurons respond to neurotransmitters by generating electrical activity. Resting potential: no neurotransmitters acting on the neuron. Action potential: abrupt waves of electrical discharge triggered by a change in charge inside the axon, positively charged particles flow rapidly into the axon and then just as rapidly flow out. Absolute refractory period: each action potential is followed by an arp, a brief interval during which an action potential can"t occur. Glutamate: most common neurotransmitters in cns, main excitatory neurotransmitter, relay of sensory information and learning.
