The structure and function of sensory, relay and motor neurons

?
  • Created by: lyds28
  • Created on: 04-07-19 10:35
Sensory neurons
These carry messages from the peripheral NS to the cental NS. They have long dendrites and short axons.
1 of 7
Relay neurons
These connect the sensory neurons to the motor or other relay neurons. They have short dendrites and short axons.
2 of 7
Motor neurons
These connect the CNS to effectors such as muscles and glands. They have short dendrites and long axons.
3 of 7
The synapse
Neurons do not physically touch each other but are separated by a gap called the synapse.
4 of 7
Neurotransmitter
When the electrical signal reaches the end of a neuron synaptic vesicles release neurotransmitters which relay the signal across the synapse.
5 of 7
Excitation
make a nerve impulse more likely to be triggered: for example, dopamine or serotonin which produce states of excitement/activity in the nervous system and in our mental state/behaviour.
6 of 7
Inhibition
make a nerve impulse less likely to be triggered: for example, GABA calms activity in the nervous system and produces states of relaxation (as with anti-anxiety medication such as Valium).
7 of 7

Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Relay neurons

Back

These connect the sensory neurons to the motor or other relay neurons. They have short dendrites and short axons.

Card 3

Front

Motor neurons

Back

Preview of the front of card 3

Card 4

Front

The synapse

Back

Preview of the front of card 4

Card 5

Front

Neurotransmitter

Back

Preview of the front of card 5
View more cards

Comments

No comments have yet been made

Similar Psychology resources:

See all Psychology resources »See all Biopsychology resources »