Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of calcium ions ($\mathrm{Ca^{2+}}$) in the generation of an action potential at the synaptic terminal?

Accepted Answer

They cause vesicles containing neurotransmitters to fuse with the presynaptic membrane, enabling neurotransmitter release.

Question 2

A patient presents with muscle weakness and slowed nerve conduction velocity. Which of the following is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Loss of myelin from axons in the peripheral nervous system.

Question 3

Which of the following best distinguishes a multipolar neuron from a bipolar neuron?

Accepted Answer

Multipolar neurons have multiple dendrites and one axon, while bipolar neurons have one dendrite and one axon.

Question 4

During the propagation of an action potential, which of the following events occurs immediately after the membrane potential reaches its peak?

Accepted Answer

Voltage-gated potassium channels open, leading to repolarization.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

Myelin allows action potentials to jump between nodes of Ranvier via saltatory conduction.

Question 6

A patient is unable to move their right arm and leg after a stroke. Which brain region is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Left primary motor cortex

Question 7

Which of the following cranial nerves is responsible for eye abduction?

Accepted Answer

Abducens nerve (CN VI)

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

Acts as a relay station for sensory information to the cerebral cortex.

Question 9

A patient with Raynaud’s disease experiences vasoconstriction in response to cold. Which autonomic receptor is most likely involved in this response?

Accepted Answer

Alpha-1 adrenergic receptor

Question 10

Which of the following best explains the effect of a beta-blocker on the heart?

Accepted Answer

It decreases heart rate by inhibiting beta-1 adrenergic receptors.

Question 11

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a sensory receptor type and its function?

Accepted Answer

Nociceptor: detects tissue-damaging stimuli (pain)

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the difference between EPSPs and IPSPs?

Accepted Answer

EPSPs depolarize the postsynaptic membrane, increasing the likelihood of an action potential; IPSPs hyperpolarize it, decreasing the likelihood.

Question 13

A patient has lost the ability to taste sweet and salty foods but can still taste sour and bitter. Which cranial nerve is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Facial nerve (CN VII)

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why damage to the cerebellum results in ataxia?

Accepted Answer

The cerebellum coordinates fine motor movements and balance.

Question 15

Which of the following is a function of the hypothalamus?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of body temperature

Question 16

A patient with a lesion in the dorsal root of a spinal nerve would most likely experience which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Loss of sensory input from the affected area

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of rods in the retina?

Accepted Answer

Detect low-light and peripheral vision

Question 18

Which of the following best explains the physiological basis of motion sickness?

Accepted Answer

Mismatch between visual and vestibular sensory input

Question 19

Which of the following is a correct example of a mechanoreceptor?

Accepted Answer

Pacinian corpuscle detecting pressure

Question 20

A patient is given a muscarinic receptor inhibitor. Which of the following effects would you expect?

Accepted Answer

Increased heart rate due to reduced parasympathetic activity

Neurophysiology and Nervous System Structure: Study Guide for Anatomy & Physiology

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