PSYC-104 Chapter 3-4: Chapter 3&4
14 Apr 2016
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Document Summary
Dendrites - portion of the neuron that receives signals. Axon - portion of neuron that sends signals. Neurotransmitters - chemical messenger specialized for communication from neuron to neuron. Synapses - space between two connecting neurons through which messages are transmitted chemically. Synaptic cleft - a gap into which neurotransmitters are released from the axon terminal. Glial cells - cell in a nervous system that plays a role in the formation of myelin and the blood-brain barrier; responds to injury, removes debris, and enhances learning and memory. Myelin sheath - glial cells wrapped around axons that act as insulators of the neuron"s signal. Resting potential - electrical charge difference (-60 millivolts) across the neuronal membrane, when the neuron is not being stimulated or inhibited. Threshold - membrane potential necessary to trigger an action potential. Action potentials - electrical impulse that travels down the axon, triggering the release of neurotransmitters.
