Question 1

Which of the following best describes the role of glial cells in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They provide energy, insulation, and immune responses for neurons.

Question 2

What is the primary function of the myelin sheath formed by oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells?

Accepted Answer

To increase the speed of action potential transmission along the axon.

Question 3

During the depolarization phase of an action potential, which ion primarily moves into the neuron, and through what type of channel?

Accepted Answer

Sodium ($$Na^+) $$through voltage-gated channels

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

The refractory period temporarily inactivates sodium channels after an action potential.

Question 5

A patient has a genetic disorder that prevents the formation of Schwann cells. Which of the following symptoms would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Slowed transmission of nerve impulses in the peripheral nervous system

Question 6

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the difference between electrical and chemical synapses?

Accepted Answer

Chemical synapses involve a physical gap that must be crossed by neurotransmitters.

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the role of astrocytes in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

They act as stem cells, provide nutrient reserves, and form scar tissue.

Question 8

A neuron is at rest with a membrane potential of $$-70\ \mathrm{mV}. $$Which ions are most responsible for maintaining this resting potential?

Accepted Answer

$$K^+$$ and $$Na^+$$

Question 9

Which of the following sequences correctly describes the main steps of information processing in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Sensory input → Integration → Motor output

Question 10

Which type of neuron is responsible for carrying information from sensory receptors to the central nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Afferent neuron

Question 11

A drug blocks voltage-gated $$Ca^{2+}$$ channels at the presynaptic terminal. What is the most likely effect on synaptic transmission?

Accepted Answer

Neurotransmitter release will be inhibited.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why a single neurotransmitter can have different effects on different target cells?

Accepted Answer

Different target cells may have different receptor types for the same neurotransmitter.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Phagocytosing pathogens and debris

Question 14

If the sodium-potassium pump ($$Na^+/K^+$$ ATPase) is inhibited in a neuron, what is the most likely immediate effect?

Accepted Answer

The resting membrane potential will gradually depolarize.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of acetylcholine in the nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It is a neurotransmitter involved in arousal, attention, memory, motivation, and muscle activation.

Question 16

During the undershoot phase of an action potential, which of the following occurs?

Accepted Answer

The membrane potential becomes more negative than the resting potential.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why the brain has a much higher ratio of glial cells to neurons compared to other tissues?

Accepted Answer

The brain requires extensive support, insulation, and immune protection for its neurons.

Question 18

Which of the following is the correct sequence of events at a chemical synapse?

Accepted Answer

Action potential arrives → $$Ca^{2+}$$ influx → Neurotransmitter release → Neurotransmitter binds to postsynaptic receptors

Question 19

A patient is diagnosed with a disease that destroys oligodendrocytes. Which of the following is the most likely consequence?

Accepted Answer

Loss of myelin in the central nervous system

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the function of interneurons?

Accepted Answer

They integrate information and formulate responses within the CNS.

Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling: Structure and Function in the Nervous System

Study Guide - Practice Questions