NERVOUS SYSTEM
The state of a neural cell membrane at rest, when outside the cell is more positive than inside
•The neuron sending the signal across the synapse
Pre-synaptic Neuron
an atom or molecule that carries a positive or negative electrical charge
ion
These branch-like structures receive signals from other neurons.
What are dendrites?
•The tiny space between an axon terminal and its target (neuron, muscle or gland)
Synaptic Cleft
•The neuron receiving the signal from the synapse
Post-Synaptic Neuron
What is the cell body of a neuron called?
Soma
This part of the neuron carries electrical impulses away from the cell body.
What is the axon?
•A change in a cell’s membrane potential so that the inside of the membrane is less negative than the outside
Depolarisation
What are the three types of neurons?
Inter, motor and sensory
A long, cable-like extension that conducts electrical impulses away from the cell body toward other cell
Axon
This fatty covering speeds up the transmission of nerve impulses along the axon.
What is the myelin sheath?
•The state of a neural cell membrane in active transmission, when inside the cell is more positive than outside
Action Potential
•A chemical that is used by neurons to carry a signal across the synapse
neurotransmitter
What comprises the CNS?
Brain and spinal chord
Sensory neurons carry messages TO this body system.
What is the central nervous system?
stores neurotransmitters before they are released into the synaptic cleft
Vesicles
•The process of converting a signal from one type to another (e.g. chemical to electrical)
Signal Transduction
What are the two major divisions of the nervous system?
CNS and PNS
The nodes between myelin sheath sections where impulses “jump” are called these.
What are Nodes of Ranvier?