Neurons & Neurotransmitters
The basic message-carrying cells of the nervous system are called __________.
Neurons
Which brain area is in charge of balance and coordination?
Cerebellum
The CNS is made up of the __________ and the __________.
Brain; spinal cord
This technique records the brain’s electrical activity through scalp electrodes.
EEG
Which gland is known as the “master gland”?
Pituitary gland
Which part of the neuron receives messages from other cells?
Dendrites
Which lobe of the brain contains the visual centers?
Occipital lobe
The nerves outside the brain and spinal cord make up the __________ nervous system.
Peripheral (PNS)
A brain scan that uses many X-ray slices to build an image.
CT scan
Which gland controls metabolism by releasing thyroxin?
Thyroid
The axon terminals release __________, the chemical messengers of the nervous system.
Neurotransmitters
Damage to this area can result in Broca’s aphasia, making speech slow and halting.
Broca’s area (frontal lobe)
Which system prepares the body for fight or flight?
Sympathetic division (ANS)
Which method uses magnetic fields and radio waves for detailed structure?
MRI
This gland, located above the kidneys, helps regulate stress and salt intake.
Adrenal glands
This neurotransmitter is linked to Alzheimer’s disease when in deficit.
Acetylcholine (ACh)
Which limbic system structure processes fear and emotional memory?
Amygdala
Which system calms the body after stress?
Parasympathetic division (ANS)
This scan uses radioactive glucose to show brain activity.
PET scan
Which gland secretes melatonin, influencing sleep cycles?
Pineal gland
Explain the difference between an excitatory and an inhibitory synapse.
Excitatory increases the likelihood of firing; inhibitory decreases it.
A patient can see objects but cannot identify them. Which disorder is this?
Visual agnosia
What is a reflex arc, and why does it bypass the brain?
Connection of sensory → interneurons → motor neurons for quick, lifesaving reflexes.
Which imaging technique measures brain activity through blood oxygen levels?
fMRI
Excess growth hormone in adulthood results in __________.
Acromegaly