AP Psych Ch. 3 Review Questions

After being released into the synaptic cleft, neurotransmitters can drift away, become inactivated by enzymes, or be reabsorbed into the pre-synaptic neuron. This process of reabsorption is known as reuptake.

The firing of a neural impulse, also known as an action potential, occurs when sodium ions rush into the neuron during stimulation. This influx of sodium ions creates a change in the neuron's membrane potential, leading to the generation and propagation of the action potential. This process allows for the transmission of signals between neurons and is a crucial mechanism in neural communication.

The main difference between the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system is that the somatic nervous system is made up of nerves connecting to the skeletal muscles and sensory receptors, while the autonomic nervous system is made up of nerves connecting to the heart, blood vessels, and glands. The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements and processes sensory information, while the autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion.

The sympathetic division is the branch of the automatic nervous system that mobilizes the body's resources for emergencies, and the parasympathetic is another branch that generally conserves bodily resources.

The three neurotransmitters categorized as monoamines are serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters play a crucial role in controlling many aspects of everyday behavior. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite. Dopamine is associated with motivation, reward, and pleasure. Norepinephrine is involved in the body's stress response and alertness. Together, these neurotransmitters have a significant impact on our emotions, cognitive functions, and overall behavior.

fMRI stands for functional magnetic resonance imaging. It is a technique used to measure brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow and oxygen levels in the brain. This allows researchers to identify areas of high activity in the brain. Unlike MRI, which provides structural images of the brain, fMRI provides functional images that show which areas of the brain are active during specific tasks or stimuli. CAT (CT) scans use X-rays to create detailed images of the brain's structure, while EEG measures electrical activity in the brain. ECAT is not a recognized medical imaging technique.

Acetylcholine is released by motor neurons controlling skeletal muscles. It acts as a neurotransmitter, transmitting signals from the motor neurons to the skeletal muscles, causing them to contract. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in the voluntary movement of the body.

The limbic system, located between the cerebral cortex and subcortical areas, is responsible for regulating emotions, memory, and motivation. It plays a crucial role in processing and controlling emotions, forming and retrieving memories, and driving motivation and behavior. This system helps in the regulation of emotional responses, the formation and consolidation of memories, and the drive to seek rewards or avoid punishments. It is involved in various functions related to survival, learning, and decision-making.

Cerebrospinal fluid nourishes the brain and provides a protective cushion. It is a clear, colorless fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, acting as a shock absorber to protect the delicate structures from injury. It also helps in the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the brain and the bloodstream.

Eye color is a correct example of a poly-genetic trait because it is influenced by numerous genes. Multiple genes contribute to the variation in eye color, including genes involved in the production and distribution of melanin, which is responsible for the color of the iris. Different combinations of these genes can result in a wide range of eye colors, such as blue, green, brown, or hazel. This complexity in inheritance patterns and the involvement of multiple genes make eye color a poly-genetic trait.