UNIT 5: The Debt We Owe to the Adolescent Brain

Myelin

• A type of neuron that transmits signals

• A fatty substance that covers and protects nerve fibers, helping electrical signals travel quickly in the brain and nervous system.

• A neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation

• A type of brain cell responsible for immune defense

Equator

• An imaginary line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, located halfway between the North and South Poles.

• A physical boundary that separates different climate zones on Earth.

• A line of latitude that is 0 degrees and runs from east to west.

• The longest river in the world that flows through multiple countries.

Neanderthals

• An extinct human species or subspecies.

• A type of ancient tool used by early humans.

• A prehistoric animal that lived alongside early humans.

• A modern human subspecies found in Europe.

Insulate

• To surround or cover to prevent the passage of heat, electricity, or sound.

• To expose to the elements for better air circulation.

• To combine different materials for enhanced durability.

• To remove barriers for improved flow of energy.

Adaptable

• Be able to survive under a variety of conditions.

• Always remain the same regardless of the situation.

• Avoid changes in the environment.

• Depend on a single condition for survival.

Lethal

• Causing or capable of causing death.

• A term used to describe something that is harmless.

• A type of medical treatment.

• A synonym for happiness.

Gray matter

• The part of the brain and spinal cord that contains nerve cell bodies and is involved in processing and controlling information.

• The outer layer of the brain responsible for higher cognitive functions.

• The fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord.

• The part of the nervous system that transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

Homo sapiens

• The scientific name for the human species, meaning "wise man."

• A type of ancient tool used by early humans.

• A species of primate that lived in the trees.

• A term used to describe early human art.

Deplete

• To use up or to reduce to a very small amount.

• To increase or add to something.

• To maintain at a constant level.

• To transform into a different state.

Psychiatry

• The study of human behavior and social interactions.

• The branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental and emotional disorders.

• A field focused on physical health and wellness.

• The practice of prescribing medication for chronic illnesses.