Exam Questions Flashcards
(7 cards)
Give one difference between the autonomic nervous system and the somatic nervous system (1)
The autonomic nervous system is involuntary whereas the somatic nervous system is under conscious control.
Information can only travel in one direction at a synapse. Explain why neurons can only transmit information in one direction at a synapse (3)
The synaptic vesicles containing the neurotransmitter are only released from the presynaptic membrane
The receptors for the neurotransmitters are only present on the postsynaptic membrane
Diffusion of the neurotransmitters mean they can only go from high to low concentration, so can only travel from the presynaptic to the postsynaptic membrane
Explain how the body responds during fight or flight and why this could be unhelpful in a driving test situation (4)
Fight or flight response causes adrenaline to be released which can cause an increased production of sweat and faster heart rate which may be off putting during a driving test. For example, sweaty hands may make it more difficult to grip the steering wheel.
The fight or flight response enables a fast reaction to fight a threat or run away from it but neither of these options are helpful in a driving test as if you ran away from or attacked the instructor you would fail the test.
Using an example of a gland and hormone, outline the function of the endocrine system. Do not use the adrenal glands/adrenaline as your example. (4)
The endocrine system helps to regulate the activity of cells and organs in the body, as well as communicating chemical messages to the organs of the body.
One of these:
Thyroid gland - thyroxine - increases heart rate and metabolic rates
Pineal gland - melatonin - may help regulate the wake-sleep cycle
Anterior pituitary gland - secretes LH and FSH - stimulates ovaries to produce oestrogen and progesterone
Posterior pituitary gland - oxytocin - stimulates the uterus to contract during labour and also plays a role in bonding
Pancreas - insulin and glucagon - helps regulate blood sugar levels
Explain the difference between infradian and ultradian rhythms (2)
Infradian rhythms have a duration of over 24 hours whereas ultradian rhythms are cycles that last less than 24 hours.
Explain how Zapurpain might affect the process of synaptic transmission through inhibition (4)
Zapurpain mimics the effect of inhibitory neurotransmitters, stimulation of the postsynaptic receptors by an inhibitory neurotransmitter results in inhibition of the postsynaptic membrane.
When an inhibitory neurotransmitter binds to the post-synaptic receptors it makes the post-synaptic cell less likely to fire (IPSP)
Explain one difference and one similarity between fMRI and ERPs as ways of studying the brain (4)
fMRIs have poor temporal resolution whereas ERPs have good temporal resolution
Both are non-invasive and do not use radiation
