Nervous System — neurons, synapses, autonomic
VCE Psychology · Nervous system & neurons · 8 flashcards, free to study.
Unit 3 AOS 1. Includes resting potential numbers and the sympathetic/parasympathetic split that SACs love testing.
- Two divisions of the nervous system
- Central (brain + spinal cord) and Peripheral (somatic + autonomic).
- Function of dendrites
- Receive incoming signals from other neurons.
- Resting membrane potential — typical value
- −70 mV (inside negative relative to outside).
- What triggers an action potential?
- Depolarisation past threshold (~−55 mV) → voltage-gated Na+ channels open.
- Sympathetic vs parasympathetic — quick contrast
- Sympathetic: fight-or-flight (↑HR, ↑BR). Parasympathetic: rest-and-digest (↓HR, ↑digestion).
- Role of glutamate
- Main excitatory neurotransmitter — depolarises postsynaptic neuron.
- Role of GABA
- Main inhibitory neurotransmitter — hyperpolarises postsynaptic neuron.
- What is synaptic plasticity?
- Ability of synapses to strengthen (LTP) or weaken (LTD) over time in response to use.