Question 1: Describe the main function of a neuron in the nervous system.

Answer: A neuron transmits electrical impulses throughout the nervous system, allowing communication between the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the body.

Question 2: Identify the three main parts of a neuron and briefly describe the function of each part.

Answer: The cell body (soma) processes information; the dendrites receive signals from other neurons; the axon carries impulses away from the cell body to other neurons or muscles.

Question 3: Explain what a synapse is and describe what happens during synaptic transmission.

Answer: A synapse is a tiny gap between two neurons where communication occurs. During synaptic transmission, an electrical impulse reaches the end of a neuron, triggering the release of neurotransmitters that cross the gap and stimulate the next neuron.

Question 4: List two types of neurotransmitters and describe their roles in the nervous system.

Answer: Dopamine is involved in reward and pleasure, while serotonin regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.

Question 5: Describe how the structure of a neuron is adapted to its function.

Answer: Neurons have long axons to transmit impulses over distances, dendrites to receive signals efficiently, and a large surface area for neurotransmitter receptor sites, all supporting effective communication.

Question 6: What effect do neurotransmitters have on the postsynaptic neuron?

Answer: Neurotransmitters bind to receptor sites on the postsynaptic neuron, either stimulating or inhibiting the generation of an electrical impulse in that neuron.

Question 7: Draw a simple diagram of a neuron, labeling the cell body, dendrites, and axon. Use the space below.

Answer: A correct diagram would show a cell body with branching dendrites extending from it and a long axon leading away from the cell body, ending in terminal buttons.

Question 8: Explain the process of how an electrical impulse travels along a neuron.

Answer: An electrical impulse, or action potential, travels down the axon from the cell body towards the terminal buttons, caused by the movement of ions across the neuron's membrane.

Question 9: Describe two ways in which neurotransmitters are removed from the synaptic gap after transmission.

Answer: Neurotransmitters are broken down by enzymes or taken back into the presynaptic neuron through reuptake mechanisms.

Question 10: Suggest one way that a malfunction in neuron communication could affect behaviour.

Answer: A malfunction in neurotransmitter production or release could lead to mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety.