Neurons and Synapses (Leaving Cert Biology): Flashcards
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Definition of a neuron
Definition of a neuron
Specialised nerve cell carrying electrical signals
Axon function
Axon function
Carries electrical impulses away from cell body
Dendrites function
Dendrites function
Receive electrical impulses from other neurons
Myelin sheath function
Myelin sheath function
Fatty layer that insulates electrical impulses
Sensory neurons pathway
Sensory neurons pathway
From sense organs to central nervous system (CNS)
Motor neurons pathway
Motor neurons pathway
From CNS to effectors (muscles or glands)
Interneurons location
Interneurons location
Between motor and sensory neurons in the CNS
Definition of a synapse
Definition of a synapse
Where two neurons come into close contact
Synaptic cleft
Synaptic cleft
Tiny space between neurons at a synapse
Acetylcholine (ACh) function
Acetylcholine (ACh) function
Muscle function, memory, and learning
Dopamine function
Dopamine function
Reward chemical giving pleasure and motivation
Low dopamine linked to
Low dopamine linked to
Depression and Parkinson's disease
Endorphins function
Endorphins function
Natural painkillers and feel-good chemicals
Reflex action definition
Reflex action definition
Automatic, involuntary response to a stimulus
Why reflexes are fast
Why reflexes are fast
Impulse doesn't travel to brain for processing