1.
Which of the following is true of learning?
Correct Answer
C. Learning involves modification of the nervous system by experiences.
Explanation
Learning involves modification of the nervous system by experiences. This means that when we learn something, our brain undergoes changes in its structure and function as a result of the experiences we have. These modifications can include the formation of new neural connections, strengthening of existing connections, and changes in the release of neurotransmitters. This process allows us to acquire new knowledge and skills and adapt to our environment.
2.
In classical conditioning, an organism
Correct Answer
C. Shows a species-typical behavior in response to a previously unimportant stimulus.
Explanation
Classical conditioning is a type of learning in which an organism learns to associate a previously neutral stimulus with a meaningful stimulus. In this process, the organism develops a response to the previously unimportant stimulus, which is known as a conditioned response. Therefore, the answer "shows a species-typical behavior in response to a previously unimportant stimulus" is the correct explanation as it accurately describes the concept of classical conditioning.
3.
The ________ states that a weak synapse will be strengthened if its activation occurs at the same time that the postsynaptic neuron fires.
Correct Answer
D. Hebb rule
Explanation
The Hebb rule states that a weak synapse will be strengthened if its activation occurs at the same time that the postsynaptic neuron fires. This rule is based on the idea that when two neurons are repeatedly activated together, the connection between them is strengthened, leading to enhanced communication. This principle is fundamental to understanding how synaptic plasticity and learning occur in the brain.
4.
Relational learning involves changes in
Correct Answer
A. Connections between different regions of the sensory association cortex.
Explanation
Relational learning refers to the process of making connections between different regions of the sensory association cortex. This means that when we engage in relational learning, we are forming associations and connections between different parts of the brain that are responsible for processing sensory information. This allows us to integrate and understand various sensory inputs, such as sight, sound, and touch, in a meaningful way. By forming these connections, we are able to make sense of our environment and learn how different stimuli are related to each other.
5.
Which of the following is true of LTP?
Correct Answer
D. LTP can be produced in isolated hippocampal slices.
Explanation
LTP (Long-Term Potentiation) refers to the strengthening of synapses, which is believed to be a cellular mechanism underlying learning and memory. The given answer states that LTP can be produced in isolated hippocampal slices. This means that LTP can be induced and observed in laboratory settings by isolating and studying hippocampal tissue. This is a known fact in the field of neuroscience and has been extensively studied to understand the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and memory formation.
6.
Patient H.M. shows deficits in motor learning, perceptual learning, and stimulus-response learning.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because Patient H.M. actually did not show deficits in motor learning, perceptual learning, and stimulus-response learning. In fact, he had intact motor skills and was able to learn new motor tasks. However, he did have severe anterograde amnesia, which affected his ability to form new long-term memories. This means that while he could learn new skills in the moment, he would not remember them later.
7.
Implicit memory is another name for nondeclarative memory.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Implicit memory refers to the type of memory that is not consciously recalled and is typically acquired through repetition or practice. It includes skills, habits, and conditioned responses. Nondeclarative memory is a term used to describe memory that is not easily put into words or consciously expressed. Implicit memory and nondeclarative memory are essentially synonymous, both referring to memory that is not consciously accessible. Therefore, the statement that "Implicit memory is another name for nondeclarative memory" is true.
8.
Behavior is reinforced by treatments that release dopamine in the nucleus accumbens.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement is true because the nucleus accumbens is a part of the brain's reward system that is heavily involved in the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in reinforcing behavior by creating feelings of pleasure and reward. When treatments or activities lead to an increase in dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens, it strengthens the association between the behavior and the pleasurable sensation, thereby reinforcing the behavior.
9.
The NMDA receptor controls the activity of a sodium channel.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The NMDA receptor is a type of glutamate receptor that controls the activity of a calcium channel, not a sodium channel. When activated, the NMDA receptor allows calcium ions to enter the cell, which plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity and learning. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
10.
Receptors for ____________ are involved in LTP.
Correct Answer
B. Glutamate
Explanation
Glutamate receptors are involved in Long-Term Potentiation (LTP), a process that strengthens the synapses between neurons and is considered a cellular mechanism for learning and memory. Glutamate is the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, and its receptors play a crucial role in synaptic plasticity, including LTP. Therefore, the correct answer is glutamate.
11.
The increase in synaptic strength that occurs in LTP is due to a modification of the synapse to include
Correct Answer
B. More postsynaptic AMPA receptors
Explanation
In long-term potentiation (LTP), the increase in synaptic strength is attributed to a modification of the synapse that involves the incorporation of more postsynaptic AMPA receptors. AMPA receptors are ion channels that mediate the majority of fast excitatory neurotransmission in the central nervous system. By increasing the number of AMPA receptors, the synapse becomes more responsive to neurotransmitter release, resulting in enhanced synaptic transmission and strengthening of the connection between neurons. This modification is believed to underlie the cellular basis of learning and memory.
12.
Which of the following is a strong candidate to act as a retrograde messenger from the dendrite to the terminal button?
Correct Answer
B. Nitric oxide.
Explanation
Nitric oxide is a strong candidate to act as a retrograde messenger from the dendrite to the terminal button. Nitric oxide is a gas that can diffuse freely across cell membranes, allowing it to travel from the dendrite to the terminal button. It is involved in various physiological processes, including synaptic plasticity and long-term potentiation, and can regulate neurotransmitter release. Its ability to act as a retrograde messenger makes it an important molecule in intercellular communication within the nervous system.