Biology of Mind Chapter 2
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Questions and Answers

What neurotransmitter is primarily involved in muscle action, learning, and memory?

  • Acetylcholine (correct)
  • Norepinephrine
  • Dopamine
  • Serotonin

Which neurotransmitter is associated with mood regulation, hunger, and sleep?

  • Endorphins
  • Dopamine
  • Glutamine
  • Serotonin (correct)

What is neuroplasticity?

  • The brain's ability to produce new neurons.
  • A fixed state of brain function throughout life.
  • The process of brain cell death and replacement.
  • The brain’s ability to change and reorganize. (correct)

What is the primary role of norepinephrine in the nervous system?

<p>Arousal and alertness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the action potential is true?

<p>Action potentials can travel as fast as 200 miles per hour. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do glial cells play in the nervous system?

<p>Nourishing, protecting, and cleaning neurons. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the nervous system is composed of the brain and spinal cord?

<p>Central Nervous System (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of neurons carry messages from the body's tissues and sensory receptors to the brain and spinal cord?

<p>Sensory neurons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the neuron typically receives signals from other neurons?

<p>Dendrites. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes agonist drugs?

<p>They increase neurotransmitter effects. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Neuroplasticity is especially prominent during which stage of life?

<p>Childhood. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do cultural experiences influence the brain?

<p>They create distinct behaviors and brain activation patterns. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes antagonists from agonists in the context of neurotransmitter action?

<p>Antagonists occupy receptors to prevent neurotransmitter effects. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What functions do endorphins primarily influence in the body?

<p>Perceptions of pain and pleasure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes synapses?

<p>The synapse is a gap between neurons. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the phrase 'Dendrites listen, Axons speak'?

<p>It indicates the specific roles of dendrites and axons in neural communication. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of motor neurons in the nervous system?

<p>To carry instructions from the central nervous system to muscles and glands (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which system controls voluntary movements in the body?

<p>Somatic nervous system (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems interact?

<p>They oppose each other to maintain homeostasis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the endocrine system?

<p>To secrete hormones that act as chemical messengers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes phrenology?

<p>An early form of biological psychology focused on skull texture. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the pituitary gland?

<p>To control other glands in the body as the master gland (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major concept is associated with localization of function in the brain?

<p>Different brain regions are responsible for specific functions. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines a reflex action?

<p>An automatic response to sensory stimuli (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term is NOT typically associated with biological psychology?

<p>Psychopathologist (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the autonomic nervous system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response?

<p>Sympathetic nervous system (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an objective of the chapter on the biology of the mind?

<p>Learning about the different methods to study the human brain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the autonomic nervous system?

<p>Controlling skeletal muscle movements (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'biological psychology' emphasize?

<p>The correlation between biological processes and psychological processes. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do biological psychologists view the relationship between genetics and behavior?

<p>Genetics and behavior are fundamentally linked in a complex way. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key aspect does the study of neural and hormonal systems focus on?

<p>The interaction between biological systems and psychological behavior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In discussing the development of the human brain, which of the following is highlighted?

<p>The human brain changes and develops throughout the lifespan. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What occurs when potassium ion channels open during an action potential?

<p>Potassium ions rush out of the axon. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the phase where another action potential cannot fire?

<p>Refractory period (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What phenomenon occurs after the action potential that often results in a lower than usual membrane potential?

<p>Hyperpolarization (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of response do action potentials exhibit?

<p>All-or-nothing responses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can happen to neurotransmitters after an action potential?

<p>They are released into the synapse and broken down. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the sodium channels when the axon reaches the threshold potential?

<p>They open to allow sodium ions to enter the axon. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does reuptake refer to in neural communication?

<p>The reabsorption of neurotransmitters by the presynaptic neuron. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding action potentials?

<p>Action potentials can be either excitatory or inhibitory. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of norepinephrine in the body during the fight-or-flight response?

<p>It increases heart rate and blood pressure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did early researchers study the brain's functions?

<p>By creating lesions and observing changes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What technique involves the use of a cap covered in electrodes to study brain activity?

<p>Electroencephalogram (EEG) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Position Emission Tomography (PET) rely on to display brain activity?

<p>Radioactive glucose consumed by the individual. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes Magnetoencephalographies (MEG)?

<p>They measure magnetic fields from the brain's electrical activity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect do hormones such as cortisol, oxytocin, and growth hormones have in the body?

<p>They are primarily involved in long-term stress responses and bodily functions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the study of the brain's electrical 'chatter' refer to in neuroscience?

<p>The monitoring of electrical, metabolic, and magnetic signals from the brain. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method is commonly used by modern neuroscientists to determine functional roles of brain areas?

<p>Advanced imaging techniques with stimulation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Neuroplasticity

The brain's ability to change, reorganize, and create new neural pathways based on experience.

Neuroplasticity and Adaptation

Neuroplasticity allows us to adapt to different environments and situations throughout our lives. This is why experiences shape how our brains develop.

Cultural Neuroscience

The study of how cultural experiences, beliefs, and rituals influence brain structure and function.

Neuron Structure

Neurons are nerve cells with three main parts: Axons, dendrites, and the cell body.

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Dendrite Function

Dendrites receive signals from other neurons. Think of them as the 'listeners'.

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Axon Function

Axons transmit signals to other neurons. Think of them as the 'speakers'.

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Synapse Definition

The gap between neurons where signals are transmitted from one neuron to another.

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Glial Cells Function

Glial cells support neurons by nourishing, protecting, and cleaning them.

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Biological Psychology

The scientific study of the relationship between biological processes and psychological phenomena, such as behavior, thoughts, and emotions.

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Localization of Function

The concept that specific regions of the brain are responsible for particular functions or abilities.

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Phrenology

An outdated theory that attempted to determine personality and mental abilities by examining the bumps and depressions on the skull.

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Neural and Hormonal Systems

The two main biological systems that influence our behavior and psychological processes.

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Neural System

The network of nerves and cells that transmit information throughout the body, enabling communication between different parts.

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Hormonal System

A system of glands that produce and release hormones, chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to regulate the body's functions.

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Tools of Discovery: Studying the Brain

Various methods and techniques used to investigate the structure and function of the brain.

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Split Brain

A condition resulting from surgery that severs the corpus callosum, the main connection between the two hemispheres of the brain.

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Motor Neuron

A type of neuron that carries signals from the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) to muscles and glands, causing them to contract or secrete.

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Interneuron

A neuron that connects and communicates between sensory neurons (receiving information from the environment) and motor neurons, allowing the processing of information within the nervous system.

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Peripheral Nervous System

The part of the nervous system that extends outside the brain and spinal cord, connecting the central nervous system to the rest of the body.

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Somatic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system that controls voluntary movements, such as walking or typing, by sending signals to skeletal muscles.

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Autonomic Nervous System

The part of the peripheral nervous system that regulates involuntary bodily functions, like heart rate, breathing, and digestion.

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Sympathetic Nervous System

The part of the autonomic nervous system that prepares the body for 'fight-or-flight' responses in stressful situations, activating energy expenditure.

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Parasympathetic Nervous System

The part of the autonomic nervous system that counteracts the sympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and conserving energy.

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Reflex

A simple, automatic response to a stimulus that bypasses conscious control, involving a rapid pathway within the nervous system.

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Resting Potential

The state of a neuron when it is not transmitting a signal. The inside of the neuron is negatively charged compared to the outside.

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Threshold

The level of stimulation needed to trigger an action potential. Once this level is reached, the neuron fires.

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Action Potential

A brief electrical signal that travels down the axon of a neuron. It is the way neurons communicate with each other.

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Depolarization

The process where the inside of the neuron becomes more positively charged. This is caused by sodium ions (Na+) flowing into the neuron.

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Repolarization

The process where the inside of the neuron returns to its resting potential. This is caused by potassium ions (K+) flowing out of the neuron.

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Hyperpolarization

A state where the inside of the neuron is more negative than its normal resting potential. This occurs after repolarization.

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Refractory Period

The brief period after an action potential during which the neuron is unable to fire another action potential.

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Reuptake

The process where neurotransmitters are reabsorbed by the presynaptic neuron. It helps regulate the amount of neurotransmitters in the synapse.

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What is the function of norepinephrine?

Norepinephrine is a hormone that increases heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar. This is part of the body's 'fight-or-flight' response to stress.

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How did early researchers study the brain?

Early researchers studied the brain by observing the impact of brain injuries on a person's functioning. They compared individuals before and after injuries to understand the affected areas.

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What is a brain lesion?

A brain lesion is a damaged area in the brain, often caused by an injury or disease. Researchers study lesions to see how they affect brain function.

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How do modern neuroscientists study the brain?

Modern neuroscientists stimulate the brain using electricity, chemicals, or magnetic fields to observe specific areas and their functions.

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What does an EEG measure?

An electroencephalogram (EEG) measures electrical activity in the brain using electrodes placed on the scalp.

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What is a MEG?

A magnetoencephalographie (MEG) measures magnetic fields generated by electrical activity in the brain.

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What does a PET scan show?

A PET scan uses a radioactive glucose tracer to visualize areas of the brain that are most active.

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What are hormones and where are they released from?

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate various bodily functions. They are released from glands like the pituitary gland.

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Acetylcholine

A neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in muscle action, learning, and memory. It's involved in transmitting signals between nerves and muscles, enabling movement. Additionally, it contributes to forming new memories and retrieving information.

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Dopamine

A neurotransmitter associated with movement, learning, attention, and emotion. It's involved in regulating motor control, reward and motivation systems, and attention processes. It's also crucial for experiencing pleasure and positive emotions.

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Serotonin

A neurotransmitter that influences mood, hunger, sleep, and arousal. It plays a critical role in regulating emotional states, appetite, and sleep-wake cycles. It impacts overall wellbeing and cognitive function.

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Norepinephrine

A neurotransmitter associated with arousal and alertness. It functions in the 'fight-or-flight' response, mobilizing the body for action and increasing attentiveness. It helps us stay awake, vigilant, and focused.

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Glutamine

A neurotransmitter involved in excitation, learning, and memory. It's the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain, contributing to signal transmission and promoting neuronal activity. It plays a role in forming and retrieving memories.

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Endorphins

Neurotransmitters that influence perceptions of pain and pleasure. They act as natural painkillers and contribute to feelings of euphoria and well-being. They are released during exercise, laughter, and other enjoyable activities.

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Agonists

Drugs that enhance or imitate the effects of neurotransmitters. They can increase the production or release of neurotransmitters, block their reuptake, or directly mimic their actions.

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Antagonists

Drugs that block or decrease the effects of neurotransmitters. They can occupy neurotransmitter receptors to prevent the neurotransmitter's binding, thereby reducing its effects.

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Study Notes

Course Information

  • Course Title: The Biology of Mind
  • Course Code: PSYC 102
  • Chapter Number: 2

Learning Objectives

  • Understand how the human brain changes and develops throughout the lifespan
  • Understand neural and hormonal systems
  • Be familiar with different methods used to study the human brain
  • Be able to identify brain structures and their functions
  • Understand the split brain and how damage to the brain affects humans

Biological Psychology

  • It is the scientific study of the links between biological and psychological processes
  • Biological processes can include: genetic, neural, or hormonal processes

Phrenology

  • An early form of biological psychology
  • Involved determining character traits and mental abilities via the texture of the skulls
  • No longer considered an accurate method to study character traits or mental abilities
  • Recognized that various brain regions have specific functions (localization of function)
  • Founded by Franz Gall, a German physician

Neuroplasticity

  • The brain's ability to change
  • Reorganizes after damage
  • Creates new neural pathways based on experiences
  • Particularly high in childhood
  • Important for adaptation to the world
  • Brain development can vary between individuals due to neuroplasticity

Neural Communication

  • Neurons are nerve cells
  • Similar to other cells, neurons die and new neurons form during the lifespan.
  • Neurons have common structures: axons, dendrites and cell bodies
  • Dendrites receive messages from other cells
  • Axons pass messages away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles or glands
  • Myelin sheath covers the axons of some neurons to increase the speed of neural impulses
  • Synapse is the gap between neurons
  • Glial cells support, nourish and protect neurons

Action Potentials

  • Neurons send signals by firing electrical signals, called action potentials
  • The action potential's speed can vary
  • The action potential occurs sequentially
    • Threshold
    • Depolarization
    • Repolarization
    • Hyperpolarization
  • Action potentials are all-or-nothing responses
  • Can be either excitatory or inhibitory

Neurotransmitters

  • Released from neuron terminals
  • Bind to receptors on dendrites of the next neuron
  • Some roles of neurotransmitters: movement, learning, attention, mood, and more.
  • Extra neurotransmitters either drift away, are turned into enzymes, or are reabsorbed in a process called reuptake.
  • Drugs can act as agonists (increasing effects) or antagonists (decreasing effects)

Nervous System

  • Electro-chemical communication network
  • Two Main Parts:
    • Central Nervous System(CNS) includes the brain and spinal cord
    • Peripheral Nervous System(PNS) includes the nerves and other parts outside of the brain and spinal cord
      • Three main types of neurons: Sensory, motor, and Interneurons
      • Composed of the autonomic system (involuntary functions) and somatic system(control voluntary movements).
      • Autonomic system further divided into: sympathetic(arousing and expending energy) and parasympathetic (calming)
  • Reflexes are involuntary, automatic responses to sensory stimuli

Endocrine System

  • Contains glands and fat tissues that secrete hormones into the bloodstream
  • Hormones are chemical messengers that affect other tissues

Tools of Discovery

  • Early studies were difficult due to time constraints

  • Early researchers studied injuries and observed changes in individuals

  • Modern research uses: brain stimulation (electrically, chemically, or magnetically) to view brain reactions.

  • Electroencephalograms (EEG) - Measure electrical signals in the brain

  • Magnetoencephalographies (MEG) - Measures magnetic fields generated from brain activity

  • Positron emission tomography (PET) - Use a radioactive form of glucose to track brain activity

  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - Disrupts brain molecules to create images of brain structures

  • Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) - Tracks blood flow in brain to determine functions (in addition to structure)

Brain Regions and Structures

  • Three Main Divisions: Hindbrain, midbrain, and forebrain
  • Hindbrain: Controls survival functions including breathing, sleeping and coordination.
  • Midbrain: Connects hindbrain and forebrain. Controls movements and relays sensory information
  • Forebrain: Complex cognitive activities, sensory and associative functions, and voluntary motor activities.
  • Brainstem: Centermost portion of the brain. It includes medulla and pons. Controls essential functions such as heartbeat and breathing
  • Medulla: Controls essential bodily functions (breathing, heartbeat)
  • Pons: Controls sleep and coordinates movement
  • Thalamus: Sensory relay center
  • Reticular Formation: Filters sensory input
  • Cerebellum: Nonverbal learning, skill memory and coordinates movement
  • Limbic System: Responsible for emotions and drives. Includes amygdala (fear/aggression), hypothalamus (basic needs), and hippocampus (memory)
  • Cerebral Cortex: Perception, thinking, and speaking. Divided into four lobes: frontal, temporal, occipital, and parietal.
    • Frontal Lobes: Motor functions
    • Parietal Lobes: Sensory functions

Damage Responses

  • In the past, it was thought that the brain was unable to heal after damage
  • Newer research shows that neurogenesis and neuroplasticity are important elements in brain repair and adaptation.
  • Split brain: severing the corpus callosum which leads to a loss of communication between the hemispheres and the sensation of one side of the body being unaware of the other side's activities.

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Ch. 2 - Biology of the Mind - SE PDF

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This quiz explores the key concepts from Chapter 2 of 'The Biology of Mind'. You will learn about brain development, neural and hormonal systems, and methods used in studying the human brain. Additionally, topics such as the split brain and historical approaches like phrenology will be covered.

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