Question 1

Which structure in a neuron is primarily responsible for receiving signals from other neurons?

Accepted Answer

Dendrites

Question 2

What is the main function of glial cells in the mammalian brain?

Accepted Answer

Support and nourish neurons

Question 3

Which equation is used to calculate the equilibrium potential ($E_{ion}$) for a particular ion across a membrane?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

During the resting potential of a neuron, which ion has a higher concentration inside the cell compared to outside?

Accepted Answer

Potassium ($K^+$)

Question 5

What is the primary effect when voltage-gated $Na^+$ channels open during an action potential?

Accepted Answer

The membrane becomes depolarized

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the 'all-or-none' property of action potentials?

Accepted Answer

Action potentials only occur if the membrane potential reaches threshold

Question 7

What is the role of the sodium-potassium pump in maintaining the resting potential of a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It uses ATP to pump $Na^+$ out and $K^+$ in

Question 8

Which of the following is TRUE about the refractory period in neurons?

Accepted Answer

It prevents action potentials from traveling backward

Question 9

In myelinated axons, action potentials jump between nodes of Ranvier. What is this process called?

Accepted Answer

Saltatory conduction

Question 10

Which neurotransmitter is vital for muscle stimulation, memory formation, and learning?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 11

A neuron receives two EPSPs in rapid succession from the same synapse. What is this phenomenon called?

Accepted Answer

Temporal summation

Question 12

Which type of neuron is responsible for integrating sensory input in the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Interneuron

Question 13

If a neuron’s membrane potential changes from $-70$ mV to $-90$ mV, what process has occurred?

Accepted Answer

Hyperpolarization

Question 14

Which of the following is a correct sequence for information processing in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Sensory input → Integration → Motor output

Question 15

Which of the following ions is most responsible for the repolarization phase of the action potential?

Accepted Answer

$K^+$ efflux

Question 16

A patient is exposed to the nerve gas sarin, which disrupts neurotransmission. Which neurotransmitter is most likely affected?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of ligand-gated ion channels at a synapse?

Accepted Answer

They open when neurotransmitters bind, allowing ions to flow

Question 18

Which of the following is a real-life example of spatial summation in neurons?

Accepted Answer

Multiple synapses on a neuron release neurotransmitter simultaneously

Question 19

Which statement about the central and peripheral nervous systems is correct?

Accepted Answer

The CNS contains the brain and spinal cord

Question 20

A neuron’s membrane potential is measured at $-70$ mV. If the equilibrium potential for $K^+$ is $-90$ mV and for $Na^+$ is $+60$ mV, which ion is most responsible for the resting potential?

Accepted Answer

$K^+$

Chapter 37: Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards