Question 1

Which of the following best describes the arrangement of gray and white matter in the human brain?

Accepted Answer

Gray matter forms the core, surrounded by white matter, with additional gray matter in the cortex and nuclei.

Question 2

A patient presents with loss of voluntary control of muscles, but retains involuntary muscle contractions. Which type of paralysis is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Spastic paralysis, due to damage of upper motor neurons in the primary motor cortex.

Question 3

Which structure is responsible for the secretion of melatonin and plays a role in sleep regulation?

Accepted Answer

Pineal gland

Question 4

During a neurological exam, a patient exhibits Babinski’s sign. What does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

Damage to the corticospinal tract

Question 5

Which of the following best explains the function of the blood-brain barrier?

Accepted Answer

It selectively allows nutrients to pass while blocking most bloodborne substances from entering the brain.

Question 6

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the transfer of memory from short-term to long-term storage?

Accepted Answer

Emotional state, rehearsal, and association with existing memories enhance transfer.

Question 7

A patient with Parkinson’s disease is most likely to have degeneration in which area?

Accepted Answer

Substantia nigra

Question 8

Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for controlling the diaphragm?

Accepted Answer

Phrenic nerve

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the function of the reticular activating system (RAS)?

Accepted Answer

It sends impulses to the cerebral cortex to keep it conscious and alert.

Question 10

Which of the following is a correct equation for calculating the frequency of brain waves recorded by an EEG?

Accepted Answer

Frequency $$f is $$given by $$f = \frac{1}{T}$$, where $$T is $$the period of the wave.

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of the basal nuclei?

Accepted Answer

Regulate intensity of slow or stereotyped movements and inhibit unnecessary movement.

Question 12

A patient suffers a spinal cord transection at the cervical region. What is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

Quadriplegia, resulting in loss of motor and sensory function in all four limbs.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the mechanism of pain modulation in the body?

Accepted Answer

Endorphins and enkephalins are released by interneurons to decrease the release of substance P and inhibit action potentials.

Question 14

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the function of the cerebellum?

Accepted Answer

It provides precise timing and appropriate patterns of skeletal muscle contraction and plays a role in language and problem solving.

Question 15

Which of the following is a correct description of the stretch reflex?

Accepted Answer

It is polysynaptic and ipsilateral, involving muscle spindles as sensory receptors.

Question 16

Which of the following is TRUE about the composition and function of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Accepted Answer

CSF forms a liquid cushion, protects the CNS from trauma, and nourishes the brain.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the thalamus?

Accepted Answer

It sorts, edits, and relays sensory impulses to the cerebral cortex.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct equation for calculating the number of pieces of information that can be held in short-term memory?

Accepted Answer

Short-term memory is limited to $$n = 7 \pm 1$$ pieces of information.

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the major plexuses of the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

The brachial plexus is formed from the ventral rami of C5-T1 and innervates the shoulder and upper arm.

Question 20

A patient with Huntington’s disease is most likely to experience degeneration in which area?

Accepted Answer

Basal nuclei, due to accumulation of the protein huntingtin.

Anatomy and Physiology I: Central and Peripheral Nervous System Study Guide

Study Guide - Practice Questions