Ch. 2, Module 4 The Nervous System

The basic cell that makes up the nervous system and that receives and sends messages within that system.

• neuron

• dendrites

• axon

• soma

Branchlike structures of a neuron that receive messages from other neurons.

• neuron

• dendrites

• soma

• axon

The cell body of the neuron responsible for maintaining the life of the cell.

• dendrites

• neuron

• soma

• axon

Tube like structure of neuron that carries the neural message from the cell body to the axon terminal, for communication with other cells.

• neurotransmitter

• dendrites

• myelin

• axon

Fatty substance produced by certain glial cells that coat the axons of neurons to insulate, protect, and speed up the neural impulse.

• myelin

• axon

• dendrite

• soma

The release of the neural impulse, consisting of a reversal of the electrical charge within the axon.

• neurotransmitter

• action potential

• synapse

• neuron

Chemical found in the synaptic vesicles that, when released, has an effect on the next cell.

• action potential

• central nervous system

• synapse

• neurotransmitter

Microscopic fluid- filled space between the axon terminal and one cell and the dendrites or surface of the next cell.

• synapse (synaptic gap)

• neurotransmitter

• action potential

• dendrite

Part of the nervous system consisting of the brain and spinal cord.

• neuroplasticity

• central nervous system (CNS)

• peripheral nervous system (PNS)

• autonomic nervous system (ANS)

The ability within the brain to constantly change both the structure and function of many cells in response to experience or trauma.

• neuroplasticity

• autonomic nervous system (PNS)

• neuron

• sympathetic division (flight-or-fight system)