Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

They are the most abundant neuroglia and help maintain the blood-brain barrier and regulate the chemical environment.

Question 2

A patient has a demyelinating disease affecting the central nervous system. Which type of neuroglial cell is most likely impaired?

Accepted Answer

Oligodendrocyte

Question 3

Which of the following best explains the process of saltatory conduction in myelinated axons?

Accepted Answer

Action potentials jump from one node of Ranvier to the next, increasing conduction velocity.

Question 4

During the depolarization phase of an action potential, which ion primarily moves across the neuronal membrane, and in which direction?

Accepted Answer

Sodium ($$Na^+) $$moves into the cell.

Question 5

Which of the following is a correct sequence of events in a typical reflex arc?

Accepted Answer

Receptor → Sensory Neuron → Control Center → Motor Neuron → Effector

Question 6

A neuron with a single short process that splits into peripheral and central branches is classified as which type of neuron?

Accepted Answer

Unipolar neuron

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the role of microglial cells in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

They act as phagocytes, removing debris and pathogens.

Question 8

Which neurotransmitter is primarily inhibitory in the adult brain and is associated with opening $$Cl^-$$ channels?

Accepted Answer

GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)

Question 9

A patient presents with muscle weakness and loss of coordination. Which part of the nervous system is most likely affected if the problem is with the myelin sheath?

Accepted Answer

Either the CNS or PNS, as both have myelinated axons

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the function of ependymal cells?

Accepted Answer

They line cerebrospinal fluid-filled cavities in the CNS.

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct statement about the sodium-potassium pump ($$Na^+/K^+$$ ATPase) in neurons?

Accepted Answer

It moves 3 $$Na^+$$ ions out of the cell and 2 $$K^+$$ ions into the cell per ATP hydrolyzed.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why action potentials travel in only one direction along an axon?

Accepted Answer

The absolute refractory period prevents the action potential from traveling backward.

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of the autonomic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of cardiac and smooth muscle activity

Question 14

A neurotransmitter binds to its receptor and causes an influx of $$Na^+$$ ions into the postsynaptic neuron. What is the likely effect on the postsynaptic membrane?

Accepted Answer

It will depolarize, making an action potential more likely.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of Schwann cells?

Accepted Answer

They form myelin sheaths around axons in the PNS.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct description of the function of interneurons?

Accepted Answer

They integrate information within the CNS and connect sensory and motor pathways.

Question 17

Which of the following neurotransmitters is primarily excitatory in the CNS and is involved in learning and memory?

Accepted Answer

Glutamate

Question 18

A person accidentally touches a hot stove and quickly withdraws their hand. Which type of neuron is responsible for carrying the signal from the spinal cord to the muscles of the arm?

Accepted Answer

Motor neuron

Question 19

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

Accepted Answer

They surround neuron cell bodies in ganglia and regulate the environment around them.

Question 20

Which of the following is the correct formula for the Nernst equation, which calculates the equilibrium potential for a specific ion?

Accepted Answer

$$E_{ion} = \frac{RT}{zF} \ln \left( \frac{[ion]_{out}}{[ion]_{in}} \right)$$

Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Neurophysiology

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