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ANP Final Exam Review Guidance: Step-by-Step Study Support

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Q1. List the functions of the nervous system.

Background

Topic: Nervous System Overview

This question tests your understanding of the main roles the nervous system plays in the human body, such as communication, control, and integration of bodily functions.

Key Terms:

  • Homeostasis

  • Sensory input

  • Integration

  • Motor output

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Think about how the nervous system gathers information from the environment and the body (sensory input).

  2. Consider how the nervous system processes and interprets this information (integration).

  3. Reflect on how the nervous system responds to information by activating muscles or glands (motor output).

  4. Remember that the nervous system helps maintain homeostasis by regulating internal conditions.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q2. Know the divisions of the nervous system (CNS, PNS, Autonomic, Somatic, Parasympathetic, Sympathetic).

Background

Topic: Nervous System Structure

This question tests your knowledge of how the nervous system is organized into different structural and functional divisions.

Key Terms:

  • CNS (Central Nervous System)

  • PNS (Peripheral Nervous System)

  • Autonomic Nervous System

  • Somatic Nervous System

  • Parasympathetic Division

  • Sympathetic Division

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Start by identifying the two main divisions: CNS and PNS.

  2. Break down the PNS into its two functional subdivisions: somatic and autonomic.

  3. Within the autonomic system, distinguish between the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

  4. Think about the main functions of each division and how they interact.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q3. What are the support cells of the CNS and PNS and their functions?

Background

Topic: Neuroglia (Glial Cells)

This question tests your knowledge of the types of support cells in the nervous system and their specific roles.

Key Terms:

  • Astrocytes

  • Microglia

  • Ependymal cells

  • Oligodendrocytes

  • Schwann cells

  • Satellite cells

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. List the main glial cells found in the CNS and PNS.

  2. Describe the function of each cell type (e.g., support, insulation, immune defense).

  3. Compare and contrast the roles of CNS and PNS support cells.

  4. Think about how these cells contribute to overall nervous system health.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q4. Label a diagram of the nerve cell.

Background

Topic: Neuron Structure

This question tests your ability to identify and label the parts of a neuron, such as dendrites, axon, cell body, and synaptic terminals.

Key Terms:

  • Dendrite

  • Axon

  • Cell body (soma)

  • Myelin sheath

  • Node of Ranvier

  • Axon terminal

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Review a typical neuron diagram and identify the main structures.

  2. Label each part and recall its function (e.g., dendrites receive signals, axon transmits signals).

  3. Note the direction of impulse transmission in the neuron.

  4. Consider the role of the myelin sheath and nodes of Ranvier in speeding up signal transmission.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q5. How does a nerve impulse travel?

Background

Topic: Action Potential and Signal Transmission

This question tests your understanding of the physiological process by which electrical signals move along neurons.

Key Terms:

  • Resting potential

  • Depolarization

  • Repolarization

  • Action potential

  • Saltatory conduction

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Recall the resting membrane potential and the role of ion channels.

  2. Describe the process of depolarization and how it initiates an action potential.

  3. Explain repolarization and the restoration of the resting state.

  4. Consider how myelinated axons use saltatory conduction to speed up impulse transmission.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q6. Define a neurotransmitter and give examples.

Background

Topic: Chemical Signaling in the Nervous System

This question tests your understanding of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals across synapses.

Key Terms:

  • Neurotransmitter

  • Synapse

  • Examples: Acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Define what a neurotransmitter is and its role in neural communication.

  2. List several common neurotransmitters and their functions.

  3. Explain how neurotransmitters are released and received at synapses.

  4. Consider the effects of neurotransmitter imbalances on health.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q7. Explain the transmission of a reflex arc.

Background

Topic: Reflexes and Neural Pathways

This question tests your understanding of the steps involved in a reflex arc, which is a rapid, automatic response to a stimulus.

Key Terms:

  • Sensory neuron

  • Interneuron

  • Motor neuron

  • Effector

  • Receptor

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Identify the five basic components of a reflex arc.

  2. Describe the pathway from receptor to effector.

  3. Explain the role of interneurons in the spinal cord.

  4. Consider why reflexes are important for survival.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q8. Know the cranial nerves and their functions.

Background

Topic: Cranial Nerves

This question tests your ability to recall the names, numbers, and functions of the cranial nerves.

Key Terms:

  • Olfactory, Optic, Oculomotor, Trochlear, Trigeminal, Abducens, Facial, Vestibulocochlear, Glossopharyngeal, Vagus, Accessory, Hypoglossal

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. List the twelve cranial nerves in order.

  2. Associate each nerve with its primary function (sensory, motor, or both).

  3. Recall any mnemonics that help remember their names and functions.

  4. Think about which nerves are involved in special senses.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q9. Know the function of the parts of the brain.

Background

Topic: Brain Anatomy and Function

This question tests your knowledge of the major regions of the brain and their specific functions.

Key Terms:

  • Cerebrum

  • Cerebellum

  • Brainstem

  • Thalamus

  • Hypothalamus

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. Identify the main parts of the brain.

  2. Describe the primary function of each part.

  3. Consider how these parts work together to control bodily functions.

  4. Think about examples of what happens if a part is damaged.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

Q10. How is the brain protected? There are several ways…

Background

Topic: Brain Protection

This question tests your understanding of the anatomical and physiological mechanisms that protect the brain.

Key Terms:

  • Skull

  • Meninges

  • Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

  • Blood-brain barrier

Step-by-Step Guidance

  1. List the physical structures that protect the brain.

  2. Describe the function of the meninges and CSF.

  3. Explain the role of the blood-brain barrier.

  4. Consider how each mechanism contributes to overall protection.

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!

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