Neurones

Question 1

How is a signal is transmitted at a synapse and how the painkillers reduce the pain felt by the person?

Answer 1

The synapse is a gap between 2 neurones. Neurones transmit electrical impulses. Electrical impulses trigger the release of neurotransmitters which diffuse across the synapse as a chemical signal. Neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the next neurone, triggering an electrical impulse in the next neurone.

Painkillers prevent neurotransmitters binding to receptors in the next neurone and so an electrical impulse is not triggered. The signal is not received by the central nervous system and the person does not feel pain.

Question 2

Synapse transmission

Answer 2

A synapse is a gap between neurones. Electrical impulses trigger the release of neurotransmitters which diffuse across the synapse as a chemical signal, neurotransmitters bind to receptors on the next neurone, triggering an electrical impulse in the next neurone.

Question 3

What does myelination do?

Answer 3

-Speeds up the impulses
-Insulates the neurone

Question 4

Motor neurone

Answer 4

Transmit information from the CNS to effectors (transmits information over a greater distance than neurones in the brain)

Question 5

Sensory neurone

Answer 5

Transmits information from receptors to the CNS

Question 6

Relay neurone

Answer 6

In CNS, transmits information between the sensory neurone and motor neurone

Question 7

What is the reflex arc?

Answer 7

A subconscious process that occurs in response to danger so there is a faster transmission of electrical impulses, allowing a quick reaction to protect the body from harm.