Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of astrocytes in the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They regulate the chemical environment and help modulate capillary exchange.

Question 2

A patient presents with demyelination in the CNS. Which glial cell type is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Oligodendrocytes

Question 3

Which equation correctly represents the calculation of the resting membrane potential ($$RMP) $$using the Nernst equation for potassium ions?

Accepted Answer

$$RMP = \frac{RT}{zF} \ln \left( \frac{[K^+]_{out}}{[K^+]_{in}} \right)$$

Question 4

During depolarization of a neuron, which of the following occurs?

Accepted Answer

The cell becomes less negative, increasing the chance of a nerve impulse signal.

Question 5

Which glial cell is responsible for circulating cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Ependymal cells

Question 6

A neuron is exposed to a toxin that blocks voltage-gated sodium channels. What is the most likely effect on the neuron’s ability to generate an action potential?

Accepted Answer

The neuron will be unable to initiate an action potential.

Question 7

Which of the following best explains why myelinated axons conduct impulses faster than unmyelinated axons?

Accepted Answer

Myelin allows for saltatory conduction, where action potentials jump between nodes of Ranvier.

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a property of neurons?

Accepted Answer

Ability to divide and replace themselves frequently

Question 9

A patient has a genetic mutation that impairs the function of microglia. Which of the following consequences is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Impaired immune defense in the CNS

Question 10

Which of the following channels opens in response to a change in membrane potential?

Accepted Answer

Voltage-gated channels

Question 11

If the extracellular concentration of potassium ($$[K^+]_{out}) $$increases significantly, what effect will this have on the resting membrane potential ($$RMP) of a $$neuron?

Accepted Answer

The $$RMP$$ will become less negative (depolarize).

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the role of satellite cells in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They surround neuron cell bodies in the PNS and perform functions similar to astrocytes.

Question 13

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events during an action potential?

Accepted Answer

Depolarization, repolarization, hyperpolarization

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of the nodes of Ranvier?

Accepted Answer

They are gaps in the myelin sheath that allow for rapid conduction of action potentials.

Question 15

Which of the following statements about the resting membrane potential ($$RMP) is $$correct?

Accepted Answer

It is typically around $$-70\ \mathrm{mV} in $$neurons.

Question 16

A neuron is hyperpolarized. Which of the following best describes its state?

Accepted Answer

Its membrane potential is more negative than the resting membrane potential.

Question 17

Which of the following is a function of Schwann cells?

Accepted Answer

Producing myelin sheaths around peripheral neuronal axons

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the difference between chemically-gated and voltage-gated ion channels?

Accepted Answer

Chemically-gated channels open in response to a specific chemical, while voltage-gated channels open in response to changes in membrane potential.

Question 19

Which of the following is a real-world consequence of impaired ependymal cell function?

Accepted Answer

Impaired circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, potentially leading to hydrocephalus

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why neurons have a high metabolic rate?

Accepted Answer

They require constant energy to maintain ion gradients and support electrical signaling.

Fundamentals of the Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Physiology

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