Refractory Period (CH 12) Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the refractory period?

The time it takes for a nerve impulse to travel across an axon.

The time between two action potentials when an axon cannot respond. (correct)

The phase of action potential generation.

The period during which neurotransmitters are released.

Name 2 phases of the refractory period.

Absolute refractory period, Relative refractory period

What is the absolute refractory period?

The time after an action potential onset when no amount of stimulus can initiate a second action potential.

What is the relative refractory period?

The period immediately after the absolute refractory period where a second action potential can be initiated only with a stronger stimulus. Signup and view all the answers

What is continuous conduction?

Smooth and rapid transmission in unmyelinated axons. Signup and view all the answers

Describe saltatory conduction.

The rapid transmission of a nerve impulse along an axon by jumping from one node of Ranvier to another. Signup and view all the answers

Where do action potentials occur in neurons?

At neurofibril nodes. Signup and view all the answers

What are neuronal pools?

Groups of neurons arranged in specific patterns through which input is conducted and distributed. Signup and view all the answers

Name 4 types of neuronal pools.

Converging circuit, Diverging circuit, Reverberating circuit, Parallel-after-discharge circuit. Signup and view all the answers

What is a converging circuit?

Inputs that come together at a single postsynaptic neuron. Signup and view all the answers

Describe a diverging circuit.

A circuit that spreads information from one presynaptic neuron to several postsynaptic neurons. Signup and view all the answers

What is a reverberating circuit?

A circuit that utilizes feedback to produce repeated cyclical stimulation. Signup and view all the answers

What does a parallel-after-discharge circuit do?

Transmits input simultaneously along several neuron pathways to a common postsynaptic cell. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Refractory Period

Refers to the brief interval post-action potential during which an axon cannot generate another action potential.
Allows for the recovery of the excitable plasma membrane, preparing it for subsequent stimulation.

Phases of Refractory Period

Absolute refractory period: No stimulus can trigger a second action potential, regardless of intensity.
Relative refractory period: Occurs after the absolute phase; a stronger stimulus can initiate another action potential.

Action Potential Types

Continuous Conduction: Characteristic of unmyelinated axons, where action potential propagates along the entire membrane.
Saltatory Conduction: Faster impulse transmission in myelinated axons, where the action potential "jumps" between nodes of Ranvier, bypassing myelin sections.

Neurofibril Node

Action potentials are generated exclusively at neurofibril nodes, which facilitate rapid conduction in myelinated fibers.

Myelinated Regions

Myelinated sections of axons enhance signal transmission speed through the diffusion of ions along the axoplasm.

Neuronal Pools

Networks of neurons arranged in specific circuits, responsible for processing and distributing incoming sensory information.
Four recognized types of neuronal pools enhance functional flexibility:

Types of Neuronal Pools

Converging Circuit: Inputs converge onto a single postsynaptic neuron, integrating multiple signals.
Diverging Circuit: One presynaptic neuron spreads information to several postsynaptic neurons, broadening the signal's reach.
Reverberating Circuit: Employs feedback loops for prolonged stimulation, sustaining activity over time.
Parallel-after-discharge Circuit: Transmits input simultaneously through various pathways to a common postsynaptic neuron, allowing for complex processing.

Description

Test your understanding of the refractory period with these flashcards focused on Chapter 12. This quiz covers essential definitions and the phases of the refractory period, helping you prepare for exams in neuroscience and biology. Assess your knowledge and reinforce learning effectively.