PSY 1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Postcentral Gyrus, Hypothalamus, Temporal Lobe
Document Summary
Neurons: brain cells: consists of 3 parts, cell body: contains the nucleus, dendrites: widely branched structures that received input from other neurons, axon: single, long, thin, straight fiber with branches near its tip. Covered with myelin (insulating sheath that speeds up the transmissions of impulses along an axon. Glia: cells that support the neurons in many ways such as insulating them, synchronizing activity among neighboring neurons, and removing waste products. Axons convey information by a process called an action potential (an excitation that travels along an axon at a constant strength, no matter how far it travels) Is a yes-no/on-off message, like flicking a light switch. Known as the all or none: advantage: they reach your brain at full strength, disadvantage: it takes time. Description: when the axon isn"t stimulated, the membrane has a resting potential (electrical polarization across the membrane of an axon). The charge is normally -70 millivolts relative to the outside.
