Anatomy and Physiology Nervous System 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the term for the gap between two neurons at a synapse?
- Synaptic cleft (Correct answer)
- Axon hillock
- Myelin sheath
- Nodes of Ranvier
Correct answer: Synaptic cleft
The synaptic cleft is the narrow fluid-filled space between the presynaptic and postsynaptic membranes where neurotransmitters diffuse.
Question 2: Which part of the brain controls balance, coordination, and fine motor movement?
- Cerebellum (Correct answer)
- Cerebrum
- Brainstem
- Thalamus
Correct answer: Cerebellum
The cerebellum, located at the posterior base of the brain, coordinates voluntary motor movements, balance, and muscle tone.
Question 3: What type of neuron carries signals from sensory receptors toward the central nervous system?
- Afferent neuron (Correct answer)
- Efferent neuron
- Interneuron
- Motor neuron
Correct answer: Afferent neuron
Afferent (sensory) neurons transmit signals from peripheral sensory receptors to the brain and spinal cord for processing.
Question 4: What is the resting membrane potential of a typical neuron?
- -70 mV (Correct answer)
- +70 mV
- -55 mV
- 0 mV
Correct answer: -70 mV
The resting membrane potential of a typical neuron is approximately -70 millivolts, maintained by the sodium-potassium pump and selective membrane permeability.
Question 5: Which neurotransmitter is primarily responsible for muscle activation at the neuromuscular junction?
- Acetylcholine (Correct answer)
- Dopamine
- Serotonin
- Norepinephrine
Correct answer: Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine (ACh) is the neurotransmitter released at the neuromuscular junction, binding to nicotinic receptors to initiate muscle contraction.
Question 6: What is the name of the myelin-producing cells in the central nervous system?
- Oligodendrocytes (Correct answer)
- Schwann cells
- Astrocytes
- Microglia
Correct answer: Oligodendrocytes
Oligodendrocytes produce the myelin sheaths that insulate axons in the CNS, with each cell capable of myelinating multiple axon segments.
Anatomy and Physiology Nervous System 1
What is the term for the gap between two neurons at a synapse?