Question 1

Which of the following best describes the difference between genotype and phenotype?

Accepted Answer

Genotype is the unique genetic code inherited from your parents, while phenotype is the physical and behavioral traits shaped by both genotype and environment.

Question 2

A researcher is studying the heritability of intelligence using twin studies. If the heritability estimate is $$h^2 = 0.7$, what does this mean?

Accepted Answer

70% of the variation in intelligence within the population is due to genetic differences.

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for excitatory signaling in the nervous system and supports learning and memory?

Accepted Answer

Glutamate

Question 4

A patient with multiple sclerosis experiences muscle weakness and loss of coordination. Which cellular structure is most directly affected in this disorder?

Accepted Answer

Myelin sheath

Question 5

During an action potential, what is the sequence of ion movement across the neuron's membrane?

Accepted Answer

Sodium ions rush in, then potassium ions rush out.

Question 6

Which principle states that a neuron fires with the same strength every time, regardless of the intensity of the stimulus?

Accepted Answer

All-or-None Principle

Question 7

A drug that blocks the reuptake of serotonin in the synapse acts as:

Accepted Answer

An agonist, increasing serotonin activity.

Question 8

Which brain region is most associated with forming new memories and learning?

Accepted Answer

Hippocampus

Question 9

Damage to Broca's area in the left hemisphere of the brain would most likely result in:

Accepted Answer

Difficulty generating speech (expressive aphasia)

Question 10

Which of the following best explains the evolutionary psychology concept of adaptation?

Accepted Answer

Adaptation is a change in gene frequency across generations that increases survival and reproduction.

Question 11

A split-brain patient is shown an object in their left visual field. Which hand can they use to identify the object by touch, and why?

Accepted Answer

Left hand, because the right hemisphere receives input from the left visual field and controls the left hand.

Question 12

Which hormone is released by the adrenal glands during the 'fight-or-flight' response and increases heart rate and energy availability?

Accepted Answer

Epinephrine

Question 13

Which of the following is a function of glial cells in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Producing myelin to insulate axons and boost neural communication speed

Question 14

A person suffers a stroke affecting their right parietal lobe. Which deficit is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Difficulty with spatial awareness and touch perception on the left side of the body

Question 15

Which neurotransmitter is most directly involved in voluntary movement and is found at nerve-muscle junctions?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 16

Which imaging technique uses radioactive isotopes to identify active areas of the brain during specific tasks?

Accepted Answer

Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Question 17

A person is given a testosterone injection. According to research, which behavioral change is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Increased social aggression and status-seeking behavior

Question 18

Which process describes the brain's ability to reorganize and adapt after injury, such as regaining speech through singing?

Accepted Answer

Neuroplasticity

Question 19

Which division of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for calming the body and conserving energy after a stressful event?

Accepted Answer

Parasympathetic division

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the motor cortex and somatosensory cortex are located side by side in the brain?

Accepted Answer

To allow for efficient communication and rapid response to sensory input, supporting precise movement and survival.

Biological Psychology: Genes, Nervous System, and Brain Function

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