Neural Firing
Noah Carter
7 min read
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Study Guide Overview
This AP Psychology study guide covers neural communication, focusing on neurons, synapses, and neurotransmitters. It details neuron structure (dendrites, axon, myelin sheath), neural firing (action potential, resting potential), and types of signals (excitatory, inhibitory). The guide also explains the synapse, neurotransmitter functions (e.g., acetylcholine, dopamine, serotonin), and the roles of agonists and antagonists. Finally, it provides practice questions and exam tips.
#AP Psychology: Neural Communication - The Ultimate Study Guide 🧠
Hey there, future AP Psych superstar! This guide is your one-stop shop for mastering neural communication. Let's dive in and make sure you're ready to ace that exam! We'll break down everything from neurons to neurotransmitters, making it super easy to understand and remember. Let's get started!
#The Neuron: The Building Block of the Nervous System
#Parts of a Neuron: Your Brain's Wiring Diagram ⚙️
Neurons are the fundamental units of the nervous system. They transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. Understanding their structure is key!
- Dendrites: These are like the neuron's ears, receiving signals from other neurons.
- Cell Body (Soma): The neuron's control center, keeping everything running smoothly. ❤️
- Axon: The long, cable-like part of the neuron that transmits signals away from the cell body. Think of it as the neuron's highway. ⚡
- Myelin Sheath: A fatty layer that insulates the axon and speeds up signal transmission. Without it, things can get pretty slow and messy! 💪
- Terminal Branches: The ends of the axon that release neurotransmitters to communicate with other neurons. ✉️
#Neural Firing: How Neurons Communicate 🗣️
Think of a neuron firing like a toilet flushing: it either happens completely or not at all! This is the all-or-none response.
- Resting Potential: The neuron is chilling at -70mV, waiting for a signal. ➖
- Threshold: The minimum level of stimulation needed to trigger an action potential. 🔋
- Action Potential: A rapid change in electrical charge that travels down the axon. This is the neuron firing! 💣💨
- Depolarization: The inside of the neuron becomes positively charged as ions flow in. ➕
- Refractory Period: A brief resting period after firing where the neuron can't fire again. 😴
<img src="https://zupay.blob.core.windows.net/resour...
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