PSYC 211 Chapter 2: neuro-chap2-exam-notes

• School: McGill University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 211
• Professor: Yogita Chaudasama

Document Summary

Chapter 2: structure and functions of cells of the nervous system. Movement/behavior is the primary function of the nervous system. The body also contains cells that are specialized for detecting environmental events. Our brains are flexible enough that we behave in different ways, according to present circumstances and those we experienced in the past. Sensory neuron: a neuron that detects changes in the external (in the form of light, sound waves, odors, tastes or contacts with objects) or internal environment and sends info about these changes to central nervous system. Motor neuron: a neuron located within the central nervous system that controls the contraction of a muscle or the secretion of a gland. Interneurons: a neuron located entirely within the central nervous system. Local interneurons: form circuits with nearby neurons and analyze small pieces of info. Relay interneurons: connect circuits of local interneurons in one region of the brain with those in other regions.