Neural Communication and Neurotransmitters

This section focuses on the process of neural communication and the role of neurotransmitters, which is crucial knowledge for AP Psychology Unit 2 practice tests and AP Psychology Unit 2 quizlet study materials.

Threshold and Synapse

1. Threshold: The level of stimulation needed to trigger a neural response.

2. Synapse: The junction between the axon tip of a sending neuron and the dendrite or cell body of a receiving neuron. The tiny gap at this junction is called the synaptic gap or cleft.

Definition: A synapse is the point of communication between two neurons, where neurotransmitters are released to transmit signals.

Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between neurons. Some important neurotransmitters include:

1. Acetylcholine: Involved in memory and muscle contraction in the central nervous system.

2. Endorphins: Natural neural transmitters involved in pain control and pleasure.

Highlight: Understanding neurotransmitters is essential for AP Psychology Unit 2 Biological Bases of behavior.

Other Important Concepts

1. GABA: An inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neural activity.

2. Dopamine: A neurotransmitter associated with reward and pleasure.

3. Serotonin: Involved in mood regulation and sleep.

4. Norepinephrine: Associated with arousal and attention.

Vocabulary: Neurotransmitters are chemical substances that transmit signals across synapses, playing crucial roles in various psychological and physiological processes.

Understanding these concepts and the roles of different neurotransmitters is vital for success in AP Psychology Unit 2 review and exams.

Brain Structures and Functions

The brain is a complex organ composed of various structures, each with specific functions. Understanding these structures is crucial for AP Psychology Unit 2 review.

Key Brain Structures

1. Amygdala: Two almond-shaped neural clusters that are part of the limbic system, linked to emotion processing.

Definition: The amygdala is a key structure in the limbic system responsible for emotional processing, particularly fear and aggression.

2. Cerebellum: Located at the rear of the brainstem, it helps with coordination, voluntary movements, and balance.

3. Cerebral Cortex: The thin outer layer of the cerebral hemispheres, responsible for complex information processing and higher-order functions.

Highlight: The cerebral cortex is what makes us distinctively human, enabling complex cognitive functions and information processing.

4. Frontal Lobes: Located behind the forehead, these lobes are involved in speaking, muscle movements, planning, and judgment.

5. Glial Cells: Support cells that guide neural connections, provide nutrients, insulate neurons with myelin, and help remove excess ions and neurotransmitters.

Understanding these brain structures and their functions is essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2 practice tests and quizzes.

Brain Plasticity and Communication Systems

This section covers brain plasticity and the body's communication systems, which are essential topics for AP Psychology Unit 2 vocab and AP Psychology Unit 2 quizlet study materials.

Brain Plasticity

Brain plasticity refers to the brain's capacity for modification, including its ability to reorganize after damage.

Definition: Plasticity is the brain's ability to change and adapt in response to experience or injury.

Corpus Callosum

The corpus callosum is a large band of neural fibers connecting the two brain hemispheres, facilitating interaction between them.

Endocrine System

The endocrine system is the body's "slow" chemical communication system, consisting of glands that secrete hormones into the bloodstream.

Highlight: Understanding the endocrine system is crucial for AP Psychology Unit 2 Biological Bases of behavior.

Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland is the most influential gland in the endocrine system. It influences the hypothalamus and regulates growth and other endocrine glands.

Action Potential

Action potential occurs during neuron firing and is a key concept in understanding neural communication.

Definition: An action potential is an electrical signal that travels along the axon of a neuron, enabling communication within the nervous system.

Understanding these concepts is essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2 review and exams.

Neuron Structure and Function

Understanding the structure and function of neurons is crucial for AP Psychology Unit 2 Biological Bases of behavior and is frequently tested in AP Psychology Unit 2 practice tests.

Neuron Components

1. Cell Body (Soma): The neuron's life support center.

2. Dendrites: Receive messages from other cells and act as information collectors.

3. Axon: Passes messages away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands.

4. Terminal Branches of Axon: Form junctions with other neurons.

5. Myelin Sheath: Covers the axon in some neurons and helps speed up neural impulses.

Definition: A neuron is a specialized cell in the nervous system that processes and transmits information through electrical and chemical signals.

Neural Impulse Transmission

1. Nodes of Ranvier: Spaces between myelin sections through which ions pass during transmission.

2. Terminal Buttons: Small sacs containing neurotransmitters.

3. Neural Impulses: Action potentials, or electrical signals, traveling down the axon.

Highlight: The structure of neurons is designed to efficiently transmit information throughout the nervous system.

Understanding the structure and function of neurons is essential for success in AP Psychology Unit 2 review and exams. This knowledge forms the foundation for comprehending more complex neural processes and brain functions.