BI 232 - Human Anatomy & Physiology: Final Exam Study Guide Guidance

Q1. What are the functional subsystems of the nervous system?

Background

Topic: Organization of the Nervous System

This question tests your understanding of how the nervous system is divided into different functional subsystems, each with specific roles in the body.

Key Terms:

• Central Nervous System (CNS): Brain and spinal cord.

• Peripheral Nervous System (PNS): All neural tissue outside the CNS.

• Somatic Nervous System (SNS): Controls voluntary movements.

• Autonomic Nervous System (ANS): Controls involuntary functions (sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions).

Step-by-Step Guidance

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

2. Within the PNS, determine the two main functional divisions: sensory (afferent) and motor (efferent).

3. Within the motor (efferent) division, distinguish between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems.

4. For the autonomic nervous system, further divide it into sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions.

Try organizing these divisions before checking the answer!

Q2. Compare and contrast graded potentials and action potentials.

Background

Topic: Neurophysiology

This question assesses your understanding of the electrical signals used by neurons to communicate.

Key Terms:

• Graded Potential: A small, localized change in membrane potential that varies in size.

• Action Potential: A large, all-or-none electrical impulse that travels along the axon.

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Define what a graded potential is and where it occurs in the neuron.

2. Define what an action potential is and where it occurs.

3. List at least two differences (e.g., amplitude, propagation, threshold).

4. List at least one similarity between the two.

Try making a comparison table before checking the answer!

Q3. Review the events at the synapse.

Background

Topic: Synaptic Transmission

This question is about the sequence of events that occur when a nerve impulse reaches a synapse.

Key Terms:

• Presynaptic neuron

• Postsynaptic neuron

• Neurotransmitter

• Synaptic cleft

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Describe what happens when an action potential arrives at the presynaptic terminal.

2. Explain the role of calcium ions in neurotransmitter release.

3. Describe how neurotransmitters cross the synaptic cleft and bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.

4. Explain what happens to the neurotransmitter after it has acted (e.g., reuptake, degradation).

Try outlining the sequence before checking the answer!

Q4. What are the functions and locations of the following brain regions: visual cortex, visual association area, medulla, cerebrum, and hypothalamus?

Background

Topic: Brain Anatomy and Function

This question tests your knowledge of the structure and function of specific brain regions.

Key Terms:

• Visual cortex

• Visual association area

• Medulla

• Cerebrum

• Hypothalamus

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. For each region, identify its location in the brain (e.g., lobe or structure).

2. Describe the primary function of each region.

3. Note any unique features or roles (e.g., the hypothalamus and homeostasis).

Try matching each region to its function and location before checking the answer!

Q5. Name the four adult brain regions.

Background

Topic: Brain Organization

This question is about the major divisions of the adult brain.

Key Terms:

• Cerebrum

• Diencephalon

• Brainstem

• Cerebellum

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall the four main regions of the adult brain.

2. List them in order from superior to inferior.

Try listing them before checking the answer!