PSYC 2410 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Midbrain, Spinal Cord, The Automatic
17 Dec 2011
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The dendrites, which are branchlike fibers, come from body, which collect info from other neurons and messages to the body. The axon extends from one side of the body, which conducts electrical impulses away from body to send other neurons. Neurons: basic building blocks of the nervous system (at birth we have about 100 billion) Nerve cells are linked together in circuits. More than 200 different types of neurons have been viewed. Neurons are supported in their functions by glial cells, which surround neurons and hold them in place. Glial cells also manufacture nutrient chemicals that neurons need & absorb waste materials. Glial cells protect brain from toxins (the blood-brain barrier) prevents any substances from entering. Neurons generate electricity and they release chemicals. Neurons function kind of like batteries in that their own chemical substances are a source of energy. Surrounded by salty liquid environment, high sodium concentration carries a positive electrical charge.
