Question 1

Which of the following best describes the effect of an excitatory post-synaptic potential (EPSP) on a neuron?

Accepted Answer

It depolarizes the post-synaptic membrane, increasing the likelihood that the neuron will fire.

Question 2

If two simultaneous EPSPs occur at a post-synaptic neuron, what is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

The EPSPs will sum, increasing the likelihood that the neuron will reach threshold and fire an action potential.

Question 3

Which neurotransmitter is primarily associated with voluntary muscle control in the peripheral nervous system?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 4

A patient is experiencing heightened anxiety and stress. Which neurotransmitter is most likely involved in reducing these symptoms?

Accepted Answer

GABA

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding inhibitory post-synaptic potentials (IPSPs)?

Accepted Answer

IPSPs hyperpolarize the post-synaptic membrane, decreasing the likelihood of firing.

Question 6

Which neurotransmitter is most closely linked to learning and enhanced memory in the brain?

Accepted Answer

Glutamate

Question 7

A drug acts as an agonist at a neurotransmitter receptor. What is its most likely effect?

Accepted Answer

It mimics the neurotransmitter, activating the receptor.

Question 8

Which division of the nervous system is responsible for regulating internal organs and maintaining homeostasis?

Accepted Answer

Autonomic nervous system

Question 9

Which neurotransmitter is most involved in regulating mood and pain reduction within emotional centers of the brain?

Accepted Answer

Endorphins

Question 10

A neuron is at a resting membrane potential of $-70\ \mathrm{mV}$. After receiving an EPSP, its membrane potential changes to $-67\ \mathrm{mV}$. What has occurred?

Accepted Answer

The neuron has been depolarized.

Question 11

Which neurotransmitter is most associated with states of vigilance and heightened awareness of danger?

Accepted Answer

Norepinephrine

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the 'lock and key' mechanism in neurotransmitter function?

Accepted Answer

Neurotransmitters bind to specific receptors that match their shape.

Question 13

Which of the following is a major function of dopamine in the brain?

Accepted Answer

Motor behavior and emotional arousal

Question 14

Which process removes neurotransmitters from the synaptic cleft after they have performed their function?

Accepted Answer

Reuptake

Question 15

Which division of the peripheral nervous system interacts with the external environment by carrying sensory signals from the skin, muscles, and joints to the CNS?

Accepted Answer

Somatic nervous system

Question 16

A person is startled by a loud noise, causing increased heart rate and rapid breathing. Which division of the autonomic nervous system is primarily responsible for this response?

Accepted Answer

Sympathetic nervous system

Question 17

Which neurotransmitter is most involved in the regulation of sleep and wakefulness?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin

Question 18

If a neuron receives both an EPSP and an IPSP at the same time, what is the most likely outcome?

Accepted Answer

The EPSP and IPSP will sum and cancel each other out.

Question 19

Which of the following is TRUE about the parasympathetic nervous system?

Accepted Answer

It acts to conserve energy and promote 'rest and digest' functions.

Question 20

A neuron will fire an action potential if the sum of EPSPs and IPSPs is larger than the threshold. Which equation best represents this condition?

Accepted Answer

$\sum \mathrm{EPSPs} + \sum \mathrm{IPSPs} > \mathrm{Threshold}$

Synapses, Neurotransmitters, and the Nervous System: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards