Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

To control and communicate information throughout the body

Question 2

A patient is experiencing difficulty with voluntary muscle movement. Which division of the nervous system is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Somatic motor division

Question 3

Which type of neuron is primarily responsible for transmitting impulses from sensory receptors to the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Afferent (sensory) neurons

Question 4

Which neuroglial cell is responsible for producing myelin in the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Oligodendrocyte

Question 5

A nerve impulse travels faster in myelinated axons than in unmyelinated axons. What is the main reason for this increased speed?

Accepted Answer

Myelin enables saltatory conduction between nodes of Ranvier

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the difference between a nucleus and a ganglion?

Accepted Answer

A nucleus is a cluster of cell bodies in the CNS, while a ganglion is a cluster of cell bodies in the PNS

Question 7

Which equation correctly represents Ohm’s Law as applied to the flow of ions across a neuronal membrane?

Accepted Answer

$$V = I 	imes R$$

Question 8

The resting membrane potential of a neuron is primarily established by which ion?

Accepted Answer

K$$^+$$

Question 9

During depolarization of an action potential, which event occurs first?

Accepted Answer

Voltage-gated Na$$^+$$ channels open

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why action potentials are 'all-or-none' events?

Accepted Answer

Once threshold is reached, the action potential always reaches its full amplitude

Question 11

A patient has a demyelinating disease affecting the CNS. Which of the following cells is most likely damaged?

Accepted Answer

Oligodendrocytes

Question 12

Which of the following best describes graded potentials?

Accepted Answer

They are short-lived, localized changes in membrane potential

Question 13

Which process is responsible for restoring the resting membrane potential after an action potential?

Accepted Answer

Repolarization

Question 14

If the Na$$^+/K$^+$$ pump stopped functioning, what would happen to the resting membrane potential?

Accepted Answer

The inside of the cell would become more positive

Question 15

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

Accepted Answer

Opening of Na$$^+$$ channels, depolarization, opening of K$$^+$$ channels, repolarization

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the role of astrocytes in the CNS?

Accepted Answer

They support and brace neurons, anchoring them to nutrient supply lines

Question 17

A patient is unable to transmit impulses from the CNS to effector organs. Which type of neuron is most likely malfunctioning?

Accepted Answer

Efferent (motor) neuron

Question 18

Which of the following is true regarding the permeability of the neuronal membrane during the rising phase of an action potential?

Accepted Answer

Permeability to Na$$^+$$ increases

Question 19

Which of the following equations best represents the relationship between current, voltage, and resistance in a neuron?

Accepted Answer

$$I = V / R$$

Question 20

A graded potential is more likely to trigger an action potential if:

Accepted Answer

It is depolarizing and reaches threshold

Study Notes: Nervous System – Structure, Function, and Physiology

Study Guide - Practice Questions