

Problem 3
Assume that an EPSP is being generated on the dendritic membrane. Which will occur?
a. Specific Na⁺ channels will open.
b. Specific K⁺ channels will open.
c. A single type of channel will open, permitting simultaneous flow of Na⁺ and K⁺.
d. Na⁺ channels will open first and then close as K⁺ channels open.
Problem 8
The anatomical region of a multipolar neuron where the AP is initiated is the
a. Soma
b. Dendrites
c. Axon's initial segment
d. Axon terminals
Problem 9
An IPSP is inhibitory because
a. It hyperpolarizes the postsynaptic membrane.
b. It reduces the amount of neurotransmitter released by the presynaptic terminal.
c. It prevents calcium ion entry into the presynaptic terminal.
d. It changes the threshold of the neuron.
Problem 12
Since all APs generated by a given nerve fiber have the same magnitude, how does the CNS 'know' whether a stimulus is strong or weak?
Problem 15
The velocity of nerve impulse conduction is greatest in
a. Heavily myelinated, large-diameter fibers
b. Myelinated, small-diameter fibers
c. Nonmyelinated, small-diameter fibers
d. Nonmyelinated, large-diameter fibers
Problem 16
a. Describe the composition and function of the cell body.
b. How are axons and dendrites alike? In what ways (structurally and functionally) do they differ?
Problem 18
What is the polarized membrane state? How is it maintained? (Note the relative roles of both passive and active mechanisms.)
Problem 23
When admitted to the emergency room, Sean was holding his right hand, which had a deep puncture hole in its palm. He explained that he had fallen on a nail while exploring a barn. Sean was given an antitetanus shot to prevent neural complications. Tetanus bacteria fester in deep, dark wounds, but how do their toxins travel in neural tissue?
Problem 25
Local anesthetics block voltage-gated Na⁺ channels. General anesthetics are thought to activate chemically gated Cl⁻ channels, thereby rendering the nervous system quiescent while surgery is performed. What specific process do anesthetics impair, and how does this interfere with nerve impulse transmission?
Problem 26
Rochelle developed multiple sclerosis when she was 27. After eight years she had lost a good portion of her ability to control her skeletal muscles. How did this happen?