Human Anatomy & Physiology, 10e (Marieb)

Chapter 11 Fundamentals of the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue

11.1 Matching Questions

Figure 11.1

1) Which neuron would activate to a muscle?

Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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2) Which neuron would be found in the retina of the eye?
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

3) Which neuron is a sensory neuron found in a reflex arc?

Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

4) Which neuron is never myelinated?

Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

5) Which neuron is typically involved in the special senses of sight and smell?
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

6) In a reflex arc, which neuron has its cell body inside the spinal cord?
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

7) Which neuron is common only in dorsal root ganglia of the spinal cord and sensory ganglia of
cranial nerves?
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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8) Which is by far the most common neuron type?
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 1) C 2) B 3) A 4) B 5) B 6) C 7) A 8) C

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Figure 11.2

Using Figure 11.2, match the following:

A) C
B) E
C) B
D) D
E) A

9) Ion channel.
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

10) Synaptic vesicles.

Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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11) Calcium ions.
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

12) Postsynaptic membrane.

Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

13) Synaptic cleft.

Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 9) B 10) A 11) E 12) C 13) D

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Match the following:
A) Depolarization
B) Action potential
C) Relative refractory period
D) Absolute refractory period
E) Repolarization

14) The neuron cannot respond to a second stimulus, no matter how strong.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12, 11.13, 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

15) The interior of the cell becomes less negative due to an influx of sodium ions.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12, 11.13, 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

16) The specific period during which potassium ions diffuse out of the neuron due to a change in
membrane permeability.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12, 11.13, 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

17) Also called a nerve impulse transmitted by axons.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12, 11.13, 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

18) An exceptionally strong stimulus can trigger a response.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12, 11.13, 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 14) D 15) A 16) E 17) B 18) C

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Match the following:
A) Spatial summation
B) Subthreshold stimulus
C) Threshold stimulus
D) Temporal summation

19) Numerous nerve impulses arriving at a synapse at closely timed intervals exert a cumulative
effect.
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

20) Stimulation of a postsynaptic neuron by many terminals at the same time.

Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

21) An insufficient stimulus to reach an action potential.

Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

22) Any stimulus at or above this level will result in action potential.
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 19) D 20) A 21) B 22) C

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Match the following:
A) Secretory zone
B) Conducting region
C) Secretory region
D) Trigger zone
E) Receptive region

23) Area where nerve impulse is generated.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

24) Receives stimuli.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

25) Plasma membrane exhibits voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

26) Plasma membrane exhibits voltage-gated Ca2+ channels.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

27) Axon terminals release neurotransmitters.

Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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28) Plasma membrane exhibits chemically gated ion channels.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 23) D 24) E 25) B 26) C 27) A 28) E

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Match the following:
A) Parallel after-discharge circuit
B) Reverberating circuit
C) Diverging circuit
D) Converging circuit

29) One incoming axon triggers responses in ever-increasing numbers farther and farther along
the circuit.
Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome:
Global LO: G7
11.22
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

30) May be involved in complex, exacting types of mental processing.

Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome: 11.22
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

31) Involved in control of rhythmic activities such as breathing.

Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome: 11.22
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

32) Involved in activating fibers of a skeletal muscle such as the biceps muscle.
Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome: 11.22
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

33) Different types of sensory input can have the same ultimate effect.
Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome: 11.22
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

Answers: 29) C 30) A 31) B 32) C 33) D

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11.2 True/False Questions

1) The all-or-none phenomenon as applied to nerve conduction states that the whole nerve cell
must be stimulated for conduction to take place.
Answer: FALSE
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

2) Reflexes are rapid, automatic responses to stimuli that will produce the same effect every
time.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

3) Cell bodies of sensory neurons may be located in ganglia lying outside the central nervous
system.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.5
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

4) During depolarization, the inside of the neuron's membrane becomes less negative.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.5
Learning Outcome: 11.11
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

5) Neurons in the CNS are organized into functional groups.

Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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6) Strong stimuli cause the amplitude of action potentials generated to increase.
Answer: FALSE
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

7) Enkephalins and endorphins are peptides that act like morphine.

Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

8) In myelinated axons the voltage-regulated sodium channels are concentrated at the nodes of
Ranvier.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

9) A postsynaptic potential is a graded potential that is the result of a neurotransmitter released

into the synapse between two neurons.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.5
Learning Outcome: 11.11
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

10) Unipolar neurons have axons structurally divided into peripheral and central processes.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.7
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

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11) A stimulus traveling toward a synapse appears to open calcium ion channels at the
presynaptic end, which in turn promotes fusion of synaptic vesicles to the axonal membrane.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

12) Axon diameter and degree of myelination determine nerve impulse conduction velocity.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.4
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

13) The action potential is caused by permeability changes in the plasma membrane.
Answer: TRUE
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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11.3 Multiple Choice Questions

1) Nerve impulses are sent to slow the heart's rate of contraction. The nerve fibers sending these
signals will most likely belong to which division of the nervous system?
A) sensory (afferent) division
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic division
D) parasympathetic division
Answer: D
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

2) Nerve impulses leading to the brain carry information about cool temperatures on the skin.
The nerve fibers sending these signals will most likely belong to which division of the nervous
system?
A) sensory (afferent) division
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic division
D) parasympathetic division
Answer: A
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

3) Nerve impulses leading to the skeletal muscle carry information to direct movement. The
nerve fibers sending these signals will most likely belong to which division of the nervous
system?
A) sensory (afferent) division
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic division
D) parasympathetic division
Answer: B
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

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4) Cranial nerve II, the optic nerve sends nerve impulses to the brain carrying information about
the things we see. These nerve fibers most likely belong to which division of the nervous
system?
A) sensory (afferent) division
B) somatic nervous system
C) sympathetic division
D) parasympathetic division
Answer: A
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

5) The concentration of ions in the chemical environment surrounding the neurons must be
tightly regulated for neurons to function properly. Which of the following cells is most
responsible for this?
A) satellite cells
B) astrocytes
C) Schwann cells
D) oligodendrocytes
Answer: B
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

6) The concentration neurotransmitters in the fluid of the synaptic cleft must be tightly regulated
for neurons to function properly. Which of the following cells is most responsible for aiding in
this regulation?
A) satellite cells
B) astrocytes
C) Schwann cells
D) oligodendrocytes
Answer: B
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

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7) Bacteria in the blood can be prevented entry to the fluids surrounding the brain. Which cells
are most responsible for preventing bacteria from entering the fluids of the brain?
A) satellite cells
B) astrocytes
C) Schwann cells
D) oligodendrocytes
Answer: B
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

8) Meningitis can be caused by infection of the central nervous system by bacteria. Which cells
would be most responsible for removing the infection?
A) microglia
B) satellite cells
C) Schwann cells
D) oligodendrocytes
Answer: A
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

9) Like all cells, the neurons' internal organization dictates its function. Neurons have relatively
many mitochondria, an extensive network of rough endoplasmic reticulum and many clusters of
ribosomes. These cellular features indicate all of the following EXCEPT ________.
A) neurons must meet a high demand for ATP
B) neurons have a relatively high consumption of oxygen
C) neurons have stable, relatively unchanging internal environments
D) neurons produce many proteins
Answer: C
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.4
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

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10) An action potential is regarded as an example of a positive feedback. Which of the following
examples below best illustrates the positive feedback aspect of an action potential?
A) Voltage gated potassium ion channels open slowly and remain open long enough to cause
hyperpolarization.
B) A threshold stimulus will cause the opening of voltage gated sodium ion channels that will
cause further depolarizing stimulus. This stimulus will open still more voltage gated sodium ion
channels.
C) The sodium potassium pump consistently moves ions as long as ATP is available, and
regardless of membrane potential changes.
D) Potassium permeability is about 25 times greater than sodium ions.
Answer: B
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

11) The depolarization phase of an action potential is punctuated by the closing of inactivation
gates in the voltage gated sodium ion channels. All of the following are consequences of this
inactivation except one. Choose the statement below that is not a consequence of the closing of
inactivating gates.
A) This allows for the one way transmission of action potential down the axon.
B) This stops the depolarization of the axon membrane.
C) This allows for the efflux (diffusion out) of potassium ions, resulting in the repolarization of
the cell.
D) This limits the frequency of action potentials down the axon.
Answer: C
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

12) During the relative refractory period of an action potential, a larger than normal stimulus is
needed to cause another action potential. This is due to the fact that ________.
A) the membrane is now impermeable to all ions
B) the inactivation gates on voltage gated sodium ion channels are closed
C) the sodium potassium pump will stop working during relative refractory
D) the voltage gated potassium ion channels remain open long enough to hyperpolarize the axon
membrane
Answer: D
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

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13) If a post synaptic neuron is stimulated to threshold by spatial summation this implies that
________.
A) the postsynaptic cells has many synapses with many presynaptic neurons
B) the post synaptic cell has a lower than normal threshold
C) the post synaptic cell has many voltage gated ion channels
D) the post synaptic cell is slow to repolarize
Answer: A
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

14) If a post synaptic cell is stimulated to threshold by temporal summation this implies that
________.
A) a presynaptic neuron is sending frequent EPSP
B) the presynaptic neuron is sending frequent IPSP
C) the postsynaptic cell is sending frequent action potential
D) the postsynaptic cell can be influenced by only one presynaptic cell
Answer: A
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

15) When a neurotransmitter like acetylcholine is acting in an excitatory manner which of the
following is likely a result of the acetylcholine acting on the post synaptic cell?
A) Chemically gated sodium channels will open.
B) Chemically gated chloride channels will open.
C) Chemically gated potassium channels will open.
D) Chemically gated sodium channels will be closed.
Answer: A
Section: 11.8, 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.18, 11.20a
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

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16) When a neurotransmitter like GABA is acting in an inhibitory manner which of the
following is likely a result of the GABA acting on the post synaptic cell?
A) depolarization of the postsynaptic cell membrane
B) hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic cell membrane
C) opening of chemically gated sodium channels
D) influx of positively charged ions into the postsynaptic cell
Answer: B
Section: 11.8, 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.18, 11.20a
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

17) The effect of acetylcholine can be stimulating or inhibiting. Which of the following gives the
best explanation for why this is so?
A) Acetylcholine has many different forms.
B) Different post synaptic cells will have different receptors.
C) Postsynaptic cells have a dynamic and changing metabolism and respond differently at
different times.
D) Acetylcholine has a "dose effect". Larger doses are stimulating while small doses inhibit.
Answer: B
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

18) Which of the following is not a function of astrocytes?

A) support and brace neurons
B) anchor neurons to blood vessels
C) guide the migration of young neurons, synapse formation, and helping to determine capillary
permeability
D) provide the defense for the CNS
Answer: D
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

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19) Which of the choices below describes the ANS?
A) motor fibers that conduct nerve impulses from the CNS to smooth muscle, cardiac muscle,
and glands
B) motor fibers that conduct nerve impulses from the CNS to skeletal muscles
C) sensory neurons that convey information from somatic receptors in the head, body wall, and
limbs and from receptors from the special senses of vision, hearing, taste, and smell to the CNS
D) sensory and motor neurons that supply the digestive tract
Answer: A
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

20) These cells in the CNS have cilia that move in order to circulate cerebrospinal fluid
________.
A) ependymal cells
B) Schwann cells
C) oligodendrocytes
D) astrocytes
Answer: A
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

21) What does the central nervous system use to determine the strength of a stimulus?
A) origin of the stimulus
B) type of stimulus receptor
C) frequency of action potentials
D) size of action potentials
Answer: C
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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22) Bipolar neurons are commonly ________.
A) motor neurons
B) called neuroglial cells
C) found in ganglia
D) found in the retina of the eye
Answer: D
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.7
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

23) Which of the following is an excitatory neurotransmitter secreted by motor neurons

innervating skeletal muscle?
A) cholinesterase
B) norepinephrine
C) acetylcholine
D) gamma aminobutyric acid
Answer: C
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

24) Which of the following describes the nervous system integrative function?
A) senses changes in the environment
B) analyzes sensory information, stores information, makes decisions
C) responds to stimuli by gland secretion or muscle contraction
Answer: B
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

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25) The period after an initial stimulus when a neuron is not sensitive to another stimulus is the
________.
A) resting period
B) repolarization
C) depolarization
D) absolute refractory period
Answer: D
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

26) Which of the following is not characteristic of neurons?

A) They conduct impulses.
B) They have extreme longevity.
C) They are mitotic.
D) They have an exceptionally high metabolic rate.
Answer: C
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

27) Which ion channel opens in response to a change in membrane potential and participates in
the generation and conduction of action potentials?
A) mechanically gated channel
B) voltage-gated channel
C) leakage channel
D) ligand-gated channel
Answer: B
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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28) Loss of function in the enzyme acetylcholine esterase would result in which of the
following?
A) inability to release acetylcholine
B) amplify or enhance the effect of ACh
C) inability to destroy and remove acetylcholine from the synaptic cleft
D) stimulation of the production of acetylcholine
Answer: C
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

29) Which of the following is not a function of the autonomic nervous system?
A) innervation of smooth muscle of the digestive tract
B) innervation of cardiac muscle
C) innervation of glands
D) innervation of skeletal muscle
Answer: D
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

30) Collections of nerve cell bodies outside the central nervous system are called ________.
A) nuclei
B) nerves
C) ganglia
D) tracts
Answer: C
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.5
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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31) The term central nervous system refers to the ________.
A) the spinal nerves
B) sensory (afferent) nerves
C) brain and spinal cord
D) the somatic nerves
Answer: C
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1, 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

32) A neuron that has as its primary function the job of connecting other neurons is called a(n)
________.
A) efferent neuron
B) afferent neuron
C) interneuron
D) glial cell
Answer: C
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

33) Saltatory conduction is made possible by ________.

A) the myelin sheath
B) large nerve fibers
C) diphasic impulses
D) erratic transmission of nerve impulses
Answer: A
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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34) Which of the following is not a chemical class of neurotransmitters?
A) amino acid
B) biogenic amine
C) ATP and other purines
D) nucleic acid
Answer: D
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

35) Which of the following is false or incorrect?

A) An excitatory postsynaptic potential occurs if the excitatory effect is greater than the
inhibitory effect but less than threshold.
B) A nerve impulse occurs if the excitatory and inhibitory effects are equal.
C) An inhibitory postsynaptic potential occurs if the inhibitory effect is greater than the
excitatory, causing hyperpolarization of the membrane.
Answer: B
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

36) Select the correct statement regarding chemical synapses.

A) Cells with gap junctions use chemical synapses.
B) The release of neurotransmitter molecules gives cells the property of being electrically
coupled.
C) Neurotransmitter receptors are located on the axons terminals of cells.
D) The synaptic cleft uses the action potential to transmit a chemical signal to the post synaptic
cell.
Answer: D
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.17
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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37) Which of the following correctly describes a graded potential?
A) it travels long distances
B) it can have amplitudes of various sizes
C) it is initiated by voltage changes in the membrane
D) it has a depolarization, repolarization and hyperpolarization phase
Answer: B
Section: 11.5
Learning Outcome: 11.11
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

38) Schwann cells are functionally similar to ________.

A) ependymal cells
B) microglia
C) oligodendrocytes
D) astrocytes
Answer: C
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

39) Immediately after an action potential has peaked, which of the following channels will open?
A) voltage gated sodium channels
B) chemically gated chloride channels
C) voltage gated calcium channels
D) voltage gated potassium channels
Answer: D
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

40) An inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) is associated with ________.

A) a change in sodium ion permeability
B) hyperpolarization
C) opening of voltage-regulated channels
D) lowering the threshold for an action potential to occur
Answer: B
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension
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41) Which of the following will occur when an excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) is being
generated on the dendritic membrane?
A) Specific sodium gates will open.
B) Specific potassium gates will open.
C) Sodium gates will open first, then close as potassium gates open.
D) A single type of channel will open, permitting simultaneous flow of sodium and potassium.
Answer: D
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

42) When a sensory neuron is excited by some form of energy, the resulting graded potential is
called a(n) ________.
A) postsynaptic potential
B) excitatory potential
C) action potential
D) generator potential
Answer: D
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

43) Which of the following is not true of graded potentials?

A) They are short-lived.
B) They can form on receptor endings.
C) They increase amplitude as they move away from the stimulus point.
D) They can be called postsynaptic potentials.
Answer: C
Section: 11.5
Learning Outcome: 11.11
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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Copyright © 2016 Pearson Education, Inc.
44) Which of the following is true about the movement of ions across excitable living
membranes?
A) Ions always move actively across membranes through leakage channels.
B) Ions always move passively across membranes.
C) Sodium gates in the membrane can open in response to electrical potential changes.
D) Ions always move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration.
Answer: C
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.12
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

45) A second nerve impulse cannot be generated until ________.

A) the membrane potential has been reestablished
B) the Na ions have been pumped back into the cell
C) proteins have been resynthesized
D) all sodium gates are closed
Answer: A
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

46) The interior surface of a neuron's plasma membrane at resting membrane potential will have
a ________.
A) positive charge and contains less sodium than outside of the cell
B) negative charge and contains less sodium than outside of the cell
C) negative charge and contains more sodium than outside of the cell
D) positive charge and contains more sodium than outside of the cell
Answer: B
Section: 11.4
Learning Outcome: 11.10a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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Copyright © 2016 Pearson Education, Inc.
47) If a motor neuron in the body were stimulated by an electrode placed about midpoint along
the length of the axon ________.
A) the impulse would move to the axon terminal only
B) muscle contraction would occur
C) the impulse would spread bidirectionally
D) the impulse would move to the axon terminal only, and the muscle contraction would occur
Answer: C
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

48) Which of the following neurotransmitters inhibits pain and is mimicked by morphine, heroin,
and methadone?
A) acetylcholine
B) endorphin
C) serotonin
D) nitric oxide
Answer: B
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

49) Which of the following describes the excitatory postsynaptic potential?

A) short distance hyperpolarization
B) short distance depolarization
C) opens K+ or Cl- channels
D) moves membrane potential away from threshold
Answer: B
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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Copyright © 2016 Pearson Education, Inc.
11.4 Short Answer Questions

1) That part of the nervous system that conducts impulses from the CNS to the skeletal muscles
is the ________ nervous system.
Answer: somatic
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.1
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

2) Neuroglia found in the CNS that change the permeability of capillaries in the brain by binding
to and surrounding these blood vessels are called ________.
Answer: astrocytes
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

3) A chemical messenger that does not directly cause ESPSs or IPSPs but does affect the strength
of synaptic transmission is a ________.
Answer: neuromodulator
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

4) What mechanism is responsible for axonal transport?

Answer: ATP-dependent "motor" proteins such as kinesin and dynein myosin are responsible.
They propel cellular components along microtubules.
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.4
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

5) The synapse more common in embryonic nervous tissue than in adults is the ________.
Answer: electrical synapse
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.17
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

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Copyright © 2016 Pearson Education, Inc.
6) When information is delivered within the CNS simultaneously by different parts of the neural
pathway, the process is called ________ processing.
Answer: parallel
Section: 11.10
Learning Outcome: 11.23
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

7) When one or more presynaptic neurons fire in rapid order it produces a much greater
depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane than would result from a single EPSP; this event is
called ________ summation.
Answer: temporal
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension

8) What is the role of microglial cells and why are they so important in the CNS?
Answer: In the presence of invading microbes, microglial cells become macrophages to
phagocytize the microbes and neuronal debris. This protective role is important because cells of
the immune system are denied access to the CNS.
Section: 11.2
Learning Outcome: 11.3
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

9) Define synaptic delay.

Answer: Synaptic delay reflects the time required for neurotransmitter release, diffusion across
the synaptic cleft, and binding to receptors.
Section: 11.7
Learning Outcome: 11.16
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

10) What is the difference between a direct acting neurotransmitter and an indirect acting
neurotransmitter?
Answer: Direct acting neurotransmitters bind to and open ion channels. Indirect acting
neurotransmitters act through intracellular second-messenger molecules.
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 2 Comprehension
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Copyright © 2016 Pearson Education, Inc.
11) What function is served by the increased axon diameter at the nodes of Ranvier?
Answer: Increased diameter results in less resistance to lengthwise intra-axonal flow. This
results in increased speed of impulse propagation.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

12) Imagine a neuron that has several hundred axonal knobs impinging on it. The majority of
these axonal knobs are shown to be "firing." However, the neuron in question does not transmit
an impulse. Give a valid explanation of why this could occur.
Answer: Both excitatory and inhibitory potentials impinge on neurons. In this case, inhibitory
postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) outnumber EPSPs, and due to the IPSP neurotransmitter released
and its action, the postsynaptic neuron is inhibited from "firing" (hyperpolarized).
Section: 11.8
Learning Outcome: 11.18
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS , HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

13) At the biochemical level, what is the explanation of the hyperpolarization phase at the
conclusion of the action potential?
Answer: The voltage gated K+ channels are slow to open as well as to close. These channels
will remain open long enough to hyperpolarize the cell. The K+ ions decrease the positive ion
concentration momentarily below the normal -70mV and thus hyperpolarize the cell. This assists
in preventing the AP from reversing direction.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.14
Global LO: G2, G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1, HAPS2
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

14) What are the basic divisions of the peripheral nervous system?
Answer: Sensory and motor divisions. Sensory has two divisions: the somatic and visceral.
Motor has two divisions: the somatic and autonomic. The autonomic has two divisions: the
sympathetic and parasympathetic.
Section: 11.1
Learning Outcome: 11.2
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 1 Knowledge

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15) Because all action potentials are alike, how does the brain separate situations that require
immediate attention from ordinary "positional" reports?
Answer: The importance of a stimulus is derived from the number of stimuli received from the
same source. The frequency of impulse transmission indicates the stimulus intensity and the
brain responds appropriately.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.13
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

11.5 Clinical Questions

1) Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease in which the myelin sheaths are destroyed. What process
does this interfere with and what would be the consequence?
Answer: Demyelination interferes with saltatory conduction, which would result in a slowing
down and even permanent cessation of nerve impulse propagation.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

2) A patient is admitted to the hospital with exacerbation of multiple sclerosis (MS). She asks the
nurse, "Why did this have to happen to me again? I was doing so well." Explain why some forms
of MS are characterized by periods of remission and exacerbation.
Answer: Even though someone is diagnosed with MS, the axons are not damaged. Growing
numbers of sodium channels appear spontaneously in the demyelinated fibers so that conduction
resumes, even if slower. This may account for the cycles of relapse and remission in different
patients.
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

3) A patient was admitted for depression. What should the nurse explain to the patient regarding
the role of serotonin and depression?
Answer: Serotonin is a biogenic amine neurotransmitter widely distributed in the brain, where it
plays a role in emotional behavior and helps to regulate the biological clock. The patient should
also be aware that the increased serotonin might cause nausea, appetite changes and headaches,
among other symptoms.
Section: 11.9
Learning Outcome: 11.20a
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis
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4) What symptoms would a nurse focus on in his or her care of a patient with multiple sclerosis?
Answer: Visual disturbances, paralysis, and weakness
Section: 11.6
Learning Outcome: 11.15
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 4 Analysis

5) Sally, a 5-year-old child, was bitten on the hand by a bat that was later diagnosed with rabies.
She was immediately treated after the bite but had to go through a series of more involved
treatments after the rabies diagnosis in the bat that bit her. How does the rabies virus get to the
brain from a simple hand wound?
Answer: The rabies virus uses retrograde axonal transport to reach the neuron cell bodies as it
makes its way to the brain cells.
Section: 11.3
Learning Outcome: 11.4
Global LO: G7
HAPS LO: HAPS1
Bloom's Level: 3 Application

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