Transmission of information between neurons occurs in the same way as transmission along the axon.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- A reflex arc consists only of sensory neurons.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Only sensory neurons are found in a reflex arc.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Reflexive flexion and extension of a dog’s legs can still occur when the spinal cord is disconnected from the brain.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- At synapses, the cell that receives the message is called the presynaptic neuron.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- At synapses, the cell that delivers the message is called the presynaptic neuron.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Electrical communication between neurons is faster than chemical communication within neurons.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Chemical communication between neurons is faster than electrical communication within neurons.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The amount of temporal summation depends on the rate of stimulation.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Most excitatory post-synaptic potentials result in an action potential.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Graded potentials can be depolarizations or hyperpolarizations.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Spatial summation is the result of synaptic inputs from different locations arriving at the same time.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Inhibitory synapses actively suppress excitatory responses.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Most neurons have a spontaneous firing rate, a periodic production of action potentials even without synaptic input.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Relationship Among EPSP, IPSP, and Action Potentials
OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Some neurotransmitters are monoamines.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Gases can be used as neurotransmitters.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
MSC: www
- Neurotransmitter levels in the brain can be affected by changes in diet.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Most of the known neurotransmitters are synthesized from amino acids.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Most neurons release more than one kind of neurotransmitter.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Generally speaking, a neuron will release a greater number of neurotransmitters than what it will respond to with its own receptors.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Whether or not a neurotransmitter is excitatory depends on the response of the postsynaptic receptor.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Rapid changes in heart rate are probably due to the activity of ionotropic receptors.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Most of the brain’s excitatory ionotropic synapses use the neurotransmitter glutamate.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
KEY: NEW
- Metabotropic synapses use a large variety of transmitters.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- A drug that blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter is an antagonist.
ANS: T PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MSC: www
- A drug that blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter is an agonist.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MSC: www
- Unlike studies with animals, MDMA in humans is harmless to serotonin neurons.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Opiates work at the pain receptors in the skin.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Marijuana is used medically to enhance memory.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MSC: www
- Marijuana withdrawal is more intense than opiate withdrawal.
ANS: F PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.1 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MULTIPLE CHOICE
- Charles S. Sherrington was the first to infer the properties of which of the following?
| a. | synapses |
| b. | the refractory period |
| c. | the sodium-potassium pump |
| d. | dendrites and axons |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- ____ are specialized junctions between neurons.
| a. | Nodes of Ranvier |
| b. | Synapses |
| c. | Dendrites |
| d. | Spines |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Specialized junctions between neurons are called:
| a. | nodes of Ranvier. |
| b. | spines. |
| c. | dendrites. |
| d. | synapses. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- On the basis of what evidence were the properties of synapses first inferred?
| a. | the electron microscope |
| b. | single-neuron recordings |
| c. | behavioral observations |
| d. | PET scans |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The circuit from sensory neuron to muscle response is called:
| a. | a reflex arc. |
| b. | a synapse. |
| c. | flexion. |
| d. | extension. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The proper order of a reflex arc is:
| a. | motor neuron, sensory neuron, interneuron. |
| b. | sensory neuron, motor neuron, interneuron. |
| c. | motor neuron, interneuron, sensory neuron. |
| d. | sensory neuron, interneuron, motor neuron. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Why is the speed of conduction through a reflex arc slower than the speed of conduction of an action potential along an axon?
| a. | Transmission between neurons at synapses is slower than along axons. |
| b. | The longer an axon, the slower its velocity. |
| c. | Interneurons have thicker axons than other neurons. |
| d. | There are greater amounts of myelin involved in the reflex arc. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Sherrington deduced that transmission at a synapse must be slower than conduction along an axon. This was based on what kind of evidence?
| a. | temporal summation |
| b. | drugs that increase or inhibit activity at synapses |
| c. | the speed of reflexive responses |
| d. | differences in diameter between axons and dendrites |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- A certain weak stimulus produces no reflexive response, but a rapid repetition of that stimulus may produce such a response. What is this phenomenon called?
| a. | spatial summation |
| b. | temporal summation |
| c. | saltatory conduction |
| d. | synaptic combination |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Sherrington found that repeated stimuli within a brief time have a cumulative effect. He referred to this phenomenon as:
| a. | temporal summation |
| b. | spatial summation |
| c. | synaptic summation |
| d. | saltatory summation |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Temporal summation most likely occurs with:
| a. | infrequent, subthreshold excitation. |
| b. | rapid succession of stimuli that each exceed threshold. |
| c. | infrequent, inhibitory stimuli. |
| d. | rapid succession of subthreshold excitation. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Which of the following statements regarding reflexes would Charles Sherrington most likely agree with?
| a. | The overall speed of conduction through a reflex arc is faster than conduction along an axon. |
| b. | Repeated stimuli occurring within a brief time can have a cumulative effect. |
| c. | Each neuron physically merges with the next one. |
| d. | Excitatory synapses are more important than inhibitory synapses. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- To measure temporal summation in single cells, researchers:
| a. | attach electrodes to the scalp. |
| b. | insert an microelectrode into the scalp. |
| c. | collect sodium and potassium ions from nearby glial cells. |
| d. | record depolarizations of the postsynaptic neuron. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- A graded depolarization is known as an:
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
KEY: NEW
- Which of the following is TRUE about EPSPs?
| a. | It takes two to produce an action potential. |
| b. | They decay over time and space. |
| c. | They can be either excitatory or inhibitory. |
| d. | They occur because potassium gates open. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: 51 REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- An EPSP is a(n):
| a. | graded depolarization. |
| b. | depolarization with a rebounding hyperpolarization. |
| c. | graded hyperpolarization. |
| d. | action potential in a reflex arc. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Which of the following is NOT true about EPSPs?
| a. | They decay over time. |
| b. | Their strength decreases with distance. |
| c. | They operate on an all-or-none principle. |
| d. | They are depolarizations. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The primary difference between an EPSP and an action potential is that:
| a. | the magnitude of an action potential decreases as it travels along the membrane. |
| b. | EPSPs occur without sodium ions entering the cell. |
| c. | action potentials are always hyperpolarizations. |
| d. | EPSPs are subthreshold events that decay over time and space. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Depolarization is to ____ as hyperpolarization is to ____.
| a. | excitation; inhibition |
| b. | inhibition; excitation |
| c. | increasing the threshold; decreasing the threshold |
| d. | decreasing the threshold; increasing the threshold |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- What causes an EPSP?
| a. | the deactivation of cytoplasmic enzymes |
| b. | the opening of sodium channels |
| c. | the opening of potassium channels |
| d. | inherited paranormal psychic abilities |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Like an action potential, an EPSP results from:
| a. | sodium ions entering the cell. |
| b. | potassium ions entering the cell. |
| c. | sodium ions exiting the cell. |
| d. | potassium ions exiting the cell. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Which of the following would produce spatial summation?
| a. | Present two or more weak stimuli at the same time. |
| b. | Start action potentials at both ends of one axon at the same time. |
| c. | Do not allow a flexor muscle to relax before stimulating it again. |
| d. | Present a rapid sequence of weak stimuli. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
MSC: www
- Spatial summation refers to:
| a. | multiple weak stimulations that occur in rapid succession. |
| b. | a decrease in responsiveness after repeated stimulation. |
| c. | multiple weak stimulations that occur at the same time. |
| d. | an increase in the strength of action potentials after repeated stimulation. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- What is the primary difference between temporal summation and spatial summation?
| a. | Only spatial summation can produce an action potential. |
| b. | Spatial summation depends on contributions from more than one sensory neuron. |
| c. | Temporal summation produces a hyperpolarization instead of a depolarization. |
| d. | Spatial summation alters the response of more than one postsynaptic cell. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Simultaneous weak stimuli at different locations produce a greater reflexive response than one of the stimuli by itself. What is this phenomenon called?
| a. | Sherrington’s law |
| b. | temporal summation |
| c. | spatial summation |
| d. | the all-or-none law |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- What do temporal summation and spatial summation have in common?
| a. | Both involve the activity of only two neurons. |
| b. | Both require a response from the brain. |
| c. | Both depend on a combination of visual and auditory stimuli. |
| d. | Both enable a reflex to occur in response to weak stimuli. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Temporal summation is to ____ as spatial summation is to ____.
| a. | time, location |
| b. | EPSP, IPSP |
| c. | location, time |
| d. | depolarization, hyperpolarization |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
KEY: www
- Which of the following patterns of post-synaptic excitation will most likely result in an action potential?
| a. | rapid sequence of EPSPs |
| b. | rapid sequence of IPSPs |
| c. | large number of simultaneous IPSPs |
| d. | large number of simultaneous IPSPs and EPSPs |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- When a vertebrate animal contracts the flexor muscles of a leg, it relaxes the extensor muscles of the same leg. Sherrington considered this evidence for the existence of:
| a. | spatial summation. |
| b. | temporal summation. |
| c. | inhibitory messages. |
| d. | the delay in transmission at synapses. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- What ordinarily prevents extensor muscles from contracting at the same time as flexor muscles?
| a. | the ligaments and tendons that bind them together |
| b. | learned patterns of coordination in the cerebral cortex |
| c. | inhibitory synapses in the spinal cord |
| d. | control of both muscles by different branches of the same axon. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- In a reflex arc, the coordination between contraction of certain muscles and relaxation of others is mediated by:
| a. | glial cells. |
| b. | motor neurons. |
| c. | sensory neurons. |
| d. | interneurons. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- A normal, healthy animal never contracts the flexor muscles and the extensor muscles of the same leg at the same time. Why not?
| a. | When the interneuron sends excitatory messages to one, inhibitory messages go to the other. |
| b. | They are mechanically connected in a way that makes it impossible for both to contract at the same time. |
| c. | Such coordination is learned through prenatal movement. |
| d. | Both muscles are controlled by branches of the same axon. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Inhibitory synapses on a neuron:
| a. | hyperpolarize the postsynaptic cell. |
| b. | weaken the cell’s polarization. |
| c. | increase the probability of an action potential. |
| d. | move the potential closer to the cell’s threshold. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- A temporary hyperpolarization is known as an:
| a. | EPSP. |
| b. | IPSP. |
| c. | ISPS. |
| d. | EPIP. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual R REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
KEY: NEW
- Which of the following would most likely result in an IPSP?
| a. | potassium ions entering the cell |
| b. | sodium ions entering the cell |
| c. | chloride ions entering the cell |
| d. | chloride ions leaving the cell |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Increased permeability to which of the following ions would most likely result in an IPSP?
| a. | sodium |
| b. | potassium |
| c. | calcium |
| d. | bicarbonate |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- An IPSP represents:
| a. | the location where a dendrite branches. |
| b. | a gap in a myelin sheath. |
| c. | a subthreshold depolarization. |
| d. | a temporary hyperpolarization. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Increased permeability to ____ would most likely result in an IPSP.
| a. | sodium |
| b. | potassium |
| c. | calcium |
| d. | bicarbonate |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- An EPSP is to ____ as an IPSP is to ____.
| a. | hyperpolarization; depolarization |
| b. | depolarization; hyperpolarization |
| c. | spatial summation; temporal summation |
| d. | temporal summation; spatial summation |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Which of the following is NOT a factor in determining whether or not two EPSPs combine to reach threshold?
| a. | size of the EPSPs |
| b. | timing between them |
| c. | threshold of the postsynaptic cell |
| d. | threshold of the presynaptic cell |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Even at rest, most neurons have periodic production of action potentials, known as the:
| a. | spontaneous firing rate. |
| b. | excitatory firing rate. |
| c. | all-or-none law. |
| d. | Dale’s principle. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The “decision” for a neuron to fire is determined by the:
| a. | number of EPSPs only. |
| b. | spontaneous firing rate. |
| c. | number of IPSPs only. |
| d. | ratio of EPSPs to IPSPs. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- The “spontaneous firing rate” of a neuron refers to:
| a. | its resting potential. |
| b. | its rate of energy consumption. |
| c. | its rate of producing action potentials even when it is not stimulated. |
| d. | the velocity of its action potentials under normal conditions. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.1 The Concept of the Synapse
- Which of the following is TRUE about the spontaneous firing rates of neurons?
| a. | EPSPs increase the frequency. |
| b. | EPSPs decrease the frequency. |
| c. | IPSPs increase the frequency. |
| d. | One EPSP equals the effect of two IPSPs. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.1 Synapses
- What determines whether a neuron has an action potential?
| a. | only the number of EPSPs impinging on an axon |
| b. | only the number of IPSPs impinging on the dendrites |
| c. | the combined effects of EPSPs and IPSPs |
| d. | summation effects of IPSPs |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Properties of Synapses OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.1 Synapses
- Which one of Sherrington’s inferences about the synapse was WRONG?
| a. | Transmission at a synapse is slower than transmission of impulses along an axon. |
| b. | Transmission at the synapse is primarily an electrical process. |
| c. | Synapses can be either excitatory or inhibitory. |
| d. | Synapses make spatial summation and temporal summation possible. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Discovery of Chemical Transmission at Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What was the first evidence reported by T. R. Elliott suggesting that synapses operate chemically?
| a. | Adrenaline mimics the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system. |
| b. | Adrenaline decreases heart rate. |
| c. | Adrenaline produces a hormone which decreases heart rate. |
| d. | Adrenaline mimics the effects of the sympathetic nervous system. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Discovery of Chemical Transmission at Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Loewi demonstrated that synapses operate by the release of chemicals. He did this by:
| a. | applying adrenaline directly to the heart muscle. |
| b. | collecting fluid from a stimulated frog’s heart, transferring it to another frog’s heart, and measuring that heart rate. |
| c. | measuring the speed of a dog’s reflexes while the dog was under the influence of various drugs. |
| d. | applying an extract of marijuana in eye drops and discovering that it dilated the pupils. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Discovery of Chemical Transmission at Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The research that firmly established synaptic communication as chemical was:
| a. | Elliot’s adrenaline mimicking sympathetic activation. |
| b. | Loewi’s transfer of fluid from stimulated frog hearts. |
| c. | Sherrington’s study of reflexes. |
| d. | Eccles’s measurement of IPSPs. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Discovery of Chemical Transmission at Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- After one frog’s heart has been stimulated, an extract of fluid from that heart can make a second frog’s heart beat faster. What conclusion did Otto Loewi draw from these results?
| a. | Transmission at synapses is a chemical event. |
| b. | The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are antagonistic. |
| c. | Transmission at heart muscle synapses is electrical. |
| d. | Hormones facilitate the actions of the nervous system. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Discovery of Chemical Transmission at Synapses OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The correct sequence of chemical events at a synapse is:
| a. | reuptake, release, transport, synthesis |
| b. | synthesis, transport, release, reuptake |
| c. | transport, release, reuptake, synthesis |
| d. | recycle, reuse, release, return |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- ____ are a category of chemicals including adenosine and several of its derivatives.
| a. | Neuropeptides |
| b. | Acetylcholine |
| c. | Monoamines |
| d. | Purines |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What is the most unusual thing about the neurotransmitter nitric oxide (NO)?
| a. | It is found only in sensory neurons. |
| b. | It is both excitatory and inhibitory. |
| c. | It is normally a poisonous gas. |
| d. | It is also known as “laughing gas.” |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Nitric oxide’s value is that it:
| a. | increases blood flow to certain areas of the brain. |
| b. | restricts blood flow to certain areas of the brain. |
| c. | increases growth of microglia. |
| d. | decreases growth of microglia. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which of the following neurotransmitters is released by active neurons to dilate the blood vessels and increase blood flow?
| a. | endorphins |
| b. | glycine |
| c. | nitric oxide |
| d. | acetylcholine |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
MSC: www
- In addition to influencing other neurons, ____ dilates the nearby blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow to that area of the brain.
| a. | endorphins |
| b. | glycine |
| c. | nitric oxide |
| d. | acetylcholine |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What provides the building blocks for synthesizing all neurotransmitters?
| a. | substances found in the diet |
| b. | breakdown products of DNA |
| c. | breakdown products formed from other transmitters |
| d. | methane and ethanol |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Chemical Events at the Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Synapses
- The basic building blocks for the majority of neurotransmitters are:
| a. | amino acids. |
| b. | nitric oxide. |
| c. | sugars. |
| d. | carbohydrates. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- All of the following are catecholamines EXCEPT:
| a. | dopamine. |
| b. | serotonin. |
| c. | norepinephrine. |
| d. | epinephrine. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which of the following is NOT a catecholamine?
| a. | Dopamine |
| b. | Epinephrine |
| c. | Norepinephrine |
| d. | Serotonin |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The catecholamines include:
| a. | epinephrine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. |
| b. | epinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. |
| c. | dopamine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. |
| d. | epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- A new drug is discovered that affects the activity of enzymes. Which of the following stages of synaptic transmission is most likely to be affected?
| a. | Synthesis |
| b. | Diffusion |
| c. | action potential |
| d. | Release |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What makes nitric oxide unique among neurotransmitters?
| a. | It is released before the action potential occurs. |
| b. | It is taken back up into the presynaptic neuron. |
| c. | It is a gas. |
| d. | It is composed of amino acids. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- What do dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine share in common?
| a. | They all affect the same receptors. |
| b. | They are all synthesized from the same amino acids. |
| c. | They are all released by the same neurons. |
| d. | They all are gases. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Avoiding foods with lecithin, such as eggs and peanuts, would affect which neurotransmitter level the most?
| a. | acetylcholine |
| b. | serotonin |
| c. | GABA |
| d. | endorphin |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The amino acid tryptophan is the precursor to which neurotransmitter?
| a. | dopamine |
| b. | endorphin |
| c. | serotonin |
| d. | nitric oxide |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse KEY: NEW
- After a meal that was rich in the amino acid tryptophan, which neurotransmitter level would be increased the most?
| a. | dopamine |
| b. | endorphin |
| c. | serotonin |
| d. | nitric oxide |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- If you eat a food containing tryptophan, what can you consume with it to increase its entry to the brain?
| a. | phenylalanine |
| b. | carbohydrates |
| c. | fats |
| d. | thiamine |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- Dopamine and norepinephrine are classified as:
| a. | second messengers. |
| b. | purines. |
| c. | proteins. |
| d. | catecholamines. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Insulin increases the entry of tryptophan into the brain by:
| a. | weakening the blood-brain barrier. |
| b. | converting tryptophan into a compound that more easily enters the brain. |
| c. | increasing metabolic activity only in those areas of the brain that use tryptophan. |
| d. | causing certain competing amino acids to enter other cells, outside the brain. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Acetylcholine is synthesized in the:
| a. | postsynaptic terminal. |
| b. | presynaptic terminal. |
| c. | cell body. |
| d. | dendrites. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The presynaptic terminal stores high concentrations of neurotransmitter molecules in:
| a. | axons |
| b. | vesicles |
| c. | peptides |
| d. | dendrites |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Large neurotransmitters are synthesized in the:
| a. | postsynaptic terminal. |
| b. | presynaptic terminal. |
| c. | cell body. |
| d. | dendrites. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Although slower than an action potential, synaptic transmission is still relatively fast because:
| a. | the synaptic cleft is very narrow. |
| b. | sodium ions are transported quickly. |
| c. | neurotransmitters diffuse faster than electricity. |
| d. | EPSPs travel faster than IPSPs. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Vesicles are located:
| a. | in postsynaptic terminals. |
| b. | in dendrites. |
| c. | in presynaptic terminals. |
| d. | outside of the neuron in the extracellular fluid. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The tiny packets that contain neurotransmitters in the presynaptic neuron are called:
| a. | vesicles. |
| b. | bags. |
| c. | sacs. |
| d. | terminals. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- High concentrations of all neurotransmitters, except for NO, are stored in the:
| a. | presynaptic terminals. |
| b. | postsynaptic terminals. |
| c. | axon. |
| d. | cell body. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- When an action potential reaches the end of an axon, it evokes the release of neurotransmitters by opening ____ channels in the axon terminal.
| a. | chloride |
| b. | bicarbonate |
| c. | calcium |
| d. | oxygen |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- When an action potential reaches the end of an axon, the depolarization causes what ionic movement in the presynaptic cell?
| a. | sodium out of the cell |
| b. | lithium out of the cell |
| c. | iron into the cell |
| d. | calcium into the cell |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- An action potential causes the release of neurotransmitters by:
| a. | blocking potassium pores in the membrane. |
| b. | opening chloride pores in the membrane. |
| c. | blocking iron pores in the membrane. |
| d. | opening calcium pores in the membrane. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The release of neurotransmitter from the presynaptic terminal is most dependent on the influx of what ion?
| a. | sodium |
| b. | potassium |
| c. | chloride |
| d. | calcium |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- The neuron excretes neurotransmitter through its membrane by a process called:
| a. | Dale’s principle. |
| b. | exocytosis. |
| c. | endocytosis. |
| d. | voltage-dependent flow. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Exocytosis is the process by which neurotransmitters are:
| a. | excreted into the synaptic cleft. |
| b. | synthesized. |
| c. | destroyed. |
| d. | secreted into synaptic vesicles. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Given a repetitive series of action potentials in a given neuron, we can expect that:
| a. | each action potential will release the same amount of neurotransmitter. |
| b. | later action potentials in a series will release more neurotransmitter than the first. |
| c. | many action potentials will fail to release any neurotransmitters at all. |
| d. | some action potentials will release one chemical as the neurotransmitter, and others will release other chemicals. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What is the synaptic cleft?
| a. | the gap between the presynaptic neuron and the postsynaptic neuron |
| b. | a packet that stores neurotransmitter molecules |
| c. | a subthreshold depolarization |
| d. | the storage location for calcium ions |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What happens when a neurotransmitter is released by a presynaptic cell?
| a. | It causes calcium to rush into the presynaptic neuron. |
| b. | It causes calcium to rush into the postsynaptic neuron. |
| c. | The neurotransmitter passively spreads across the synaptic cleft. |
| d. | The neurotransmitter is actively transported across the synaptic cleft. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- In general, a single neuron releases ____ neurotransmitter(s) and can respond to ____ neurotransmitter(s).
| a. | one; many |
| b. | dozens of; only one |
| c. | several; only one |
| d. | several; many |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- In most cases, how many neurotransmitters can activate a postsynaptic neuron?
| a. | only one neurotransmitter |
| b. | any neurotransmitter |
| c. | several transmitters, with different synapses responding to different transmitters |
| d. | several transmitters, which must be received simultaneously |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The main advantage of a neuron releasing more than one neurotransmitter is that:
| a. | if it runs out of one, it has others. |
| b. | it can release different transmitters on different occasions. |
| c. | it can send more complex messages. |
| d. | it can release one from the axon’s terminal and one from another location along the axon. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What determines the effect that a neurotransmitter has on the postsynaptic neuron?
| a. | the speed the action potential traveled down the axon |
| b. | the number of branches of the presynaptic axon |
| c. | the receptors on the postsynaptic membrane |
| d. | the distance between the synapse and the cell body |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- A neurotransmitter receptor is:
| a. | a protein embedded in the membrane. |
| b. | a channel in the membrane. |
| c. | found only on the soma. |
| d. | activated similarly for all neurotransmitters. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 4 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- A receptor can directly open a channel exerting a(n) ____ effect or it can produce slower but longer ____ effects.
| a. | gated; metabotropic |
| b. | ionotropic; gated |
| c. | metabotropic; ionotropic |
| d. | ionotropic; metabotropic |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What does it mean to say that acetylcholine exerts ionotropic effects?
| a. | It opens gates for a particular ion. |
| b. | It alters the permeability of the presynaptic neuron. |
| c. | It increases the concentration of ions within the vesicles. |
| d. | It changes the electrical charge of sodium ions from positive to negative. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which of the following actions is most likely to be dependent on ionotropic effects?
| a. | gradual sleepiness |
| b. | hormone release |
| c. | hunger |
| d. | rapid muscle contraction |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Glutamate opens sodium gates, enabling sodium ions to enter the postsynaptic cell. What is this effect called?
| a. | metabotropic |
| b. | ionotropic |
| c. | modulatory |
| d. | orthodromic |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The neurotransmitter GABA exerts ____ effects, and its effects are almost always ____.
| a. | ionotropic; excitatory |
| b. | ionotropic; inhibitory |
| c. | metabotropic; excitatory |
| d. | metabotropic; inhibitory |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- Ionotropic effects:
| a. | depolarize the postsynaptic membrane. |
| b. | hyperpolarize the postsynaptic membrane. |
| c. | may depolarize or hyperpolarize the postsynaptic membrane. |
| d. | enhance the reabsorption of neurotransmitters. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Ionotropic effects are characterized by:
| a. | rapid, short-lived effects. |
| b. | rapid, long lasting effects. |
| c. | excitatory only. |
| d. | inhibitory only. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which of the following characterizes ionotropic effects?
| a. | rapid, short-lived effects |
| b. | rapid, long lasting effects |
| c. | excitatory only |
| d. | inhibitory only |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Few pianists can play quickly enough to play the Minute Waltz in a minute. The finger movements that are required are likely to involve which type of neurotransmitter effects?
| a. | ionotropic effects |
| b. | metabotropic effects |
| c. | second messenger effects |
| d. | neuromodulator effects |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Compared to ionotropic effects, metabotropic effects are:
| a. | quicker and briefer. |
| b. | slower and briefer. |
| c. | quicker and longer-lasting. |
| d. | slower and longer-lasting. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which of the following is more typical of a metabotropic effect than an ionotropic effect?
| a. | produces inhibitory effects on the postsynaptic cell |
| b. | influences the speed of conduction by the postsynaptic cell |
| c. | produces long-lasting effects on the post-synaptic cell |
| d. | controls sensory processes |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Neurotransmitter is to ____ as cyclic AMP is to ____.
| a. | first messenger, second messenger |
| b. | second messenger, first messenger |
| c. | metabotropic, ionotropic |
| d. | receptor, neuromodulator |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Which effect is consistently associated with a “second messenger”?
| a. | ionotropic |
| b. | metabotropic |
| c. | inhibitory |
| d. | excitatory |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Receptor molecules for neurotransmitters that exert metabotropic effects are proteins that bind to ____ outside the membrane, and attach to ____ inside the membrane.
| a. | calcium; potassium |
| b. | neurotransmitters; nicotine |
| c. | neurotransmitters; G-proteins |
| d. | adenosine; nitric oxide |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The second messenger communicates to areas:
| a. | outside the cleft |
| b. | in the cleft |
| c. | within the cell |
| d. | outside the cell |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- “Second messengers” carry their messages to:
| a. | the presynaptic membrane. |
| b. | areas within the postsynaptic cell. |
| c. | areas within the presynaptic cell. |
| d. | the surrounding glia. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- A metabotropic synapse, by way of its second messenger, ____.
| a. | has effects localized to one point on the membrane |
| b. | can influence activity in much of the presynaptic cell |
| c. | can influence activity in much or all of the postsynaptic cell |
| d. | has minimal effect on the postsynaptic cell |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Suppose a new neurotransmitter is identified that does not excite or inhibit postsynaptic cells, but affects the release of other neurotransmitters or the sensitivity of postsynaptic cells. This neurotransmitter would most likely be categorized as a(n):
| a. | neuromodulator. |
| b. | ionotropic modulator. |
| c. | hormone. |
| d. | gas. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Many neurons release neuropeptides mostly from the:
| a. | vesicles |
| b. | nodes |
| c. | axons |
| d. | dendrites |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- A hormone is a chemical that is:
| a. | secreted by a gland to the outside world. |
| b. | conveyed by the blood to other organs, whose activity it influences. |
| c. | capable of activating or inhibiting muscle fibers. |
| d. | a feedback message from the postsynaptic neuron to the presynaptic neuron. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 6 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- A chemical is called a(n) ____ when it flows through the blood to targets throughout the body.
| a. | hormone |
| b. | neurotransmitter |
| c. | neuromodulator |
| d. | endocrine |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 6 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Hormones exert their effects:
| a. | similarly to metabotropic neurotransmitters. |
| b. | similarly to ionotropic neurotransmitters. |
| c. | by attaching to special receptors on muscle fibers. |
| d. | by being metabolized by presynaptic cells and thus converted into neurotransmitters. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 6 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The anterior pituitary is composed of:
| a. | glandular tissue. |
| b. | neural tissue. |
| c. | vaso tissue. |
| d. | lymph tissue. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The anterior pituitary is composed of ____ and the posterior pituitary is composed of ____.
| a. | glandular tissue; neural tissue |
| b. | neural tissue; glandular tissue |
| c. | neural tissue; neural tissue |
| d. | glandular tissue; glandular tissue |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Releasing hormones are synthesized in the ____ and released in the ____.
| a. | anterior pituitary; bloodstream |
| b. | hypothalamus; anterior pituitary |
| c. | hypothalamus; posterior pituitary |
| d. | posterior pituitary; hypothalamus |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) controls:
| a. | secretions of the gonads. |
| b. | secretions of the mammary glands. |
| c. | secretions of the thyroid gland. |
| d. | secretions of the adrenal cortex. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What is the function of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase?
| a. | It synthesizes acetylcholine from the diet. |
| b. | It increases the sensitivity of the postsynaptic cell to acetylcholine. |
| c. | It blocks further release of the transmitter acetylcholine. |
| d. | It breaks acetylcholine down into components for recycling. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse MSC: www
- Suppose you were bitten by a black widow spider whose venom increases the release of acetylcholine from the presynaptic terminal. Which of the following treatments would be most effective?
| a. | Bite the spider back. |
| b. | Increase the activity of acetylcholinesterase. |
| c. | Decrease reuptake. |
| d. | Increase the activity of COMT. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What happens to acetylcholine after it attaches to a receptor on the postsynaptic cell?
| a. | It is broken down into two components. |
| b. | It is reabsorbed intact by the presynaptic cell. |
| c. | The postsynaptic cell metabolizes it as a source of energy. |
| d. | It continues to stimulate the postsynaptic neuron until replaced by another neurotransmitter. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- What would be the effect of a drug that inhibits the action of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase?
| a. | prolonged action of acetylcholine at its synapses |
| b. | decreased duration of action of acetylcholine at its synapses |
| c. | decreased synthesis of acetylcholine by the presynaptic cell |
| d. | increased synthesis of acetylcholine by the presynaptic cell |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- After serotonin or one of the catecholamine transmitters stimulates the postsynaptic receptor, most of the transmitter molecules:
| a. | remain on the receptor until other neurotransmitters replace them. |
| b. | are broken into components while still attached to the postsynaptic cell. |
| c. | are metabolized by the postsynaptic cell as a source of energy. |
| d. | are reabsorbed by the presynaptic cell. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Reuptake is the absorption of:
| a. | neurotransmitters by the postsynaptic neuron. |
| b. | neurotransmitters by the presynaptic neuron. |
| c. | nutrients and waste products by glial cells. |
| d. | neurotransmitters by glial cells. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Reuptake is an alternative to which other process?
| a. | recycling of neurotransmitters |
| b. | enzymatic breakdown of neurotransmitters |
| c. | absorption of neurotransmitter by the postsynaptic neuron |
| d. | re-release of neurotransmitters from postsynaptic neurons |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- “Transporter” proteins transport neurotransmitters:
| a. | back into the presynaptic neuron. |
| b. | across the synapse to the postsynaptic neuron. |
| c. | across the synapse back to the presynaptic neuron. |
| d. | to the appropriate receptor sites. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 7 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- COMT and MAO are:
| a. | enzymes that convert catecholamines into inactive chemicals. |
| b. | enzymes that make catecholamines. |
| c. | neurotransmitters in the same group as serotonin. |
| d. | the inactive fragments of catecholamines. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The primary method for disposal of peptide neurotransmitters is:
| a. | inactivation by the enzymes MAO and COMT. |
| b. | reuptake by the presynaptic neuron. |
| c. | diffusion. |
| d. | reuptake by the postsynaptic neuron. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse
OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Activation of autoreceptors tends to:
| a. | increase further neurotransmitter release. |
| b. | stimulate GABA release. |
| c. | increase sodium-potassium pump activity. |
| d. | decrease further neurotransmitter release. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Autoreceptors monitor the:
| a. | number of action potentials. |
| b. | extracellular sodium concentration. |
| c. | amount of neurotransmitter released. |
| d. | amount of reuptake. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- The chemicals used as neurotransmitters in humans are found in:
| a. | no other species. |
| b. | other mammals also, but not in non-mammals. |
| c. | other vertebrates, but not in invertebrates. |
| d. | apparently all or nearly all other species. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: The Sequence of Chemical Events at a Synapse OBJ: 8 TOP: 3.2 Chemical Events at the Synapse
- Our brains respond to plant chemicals because:
| a. | plants use chemicals similar to neurotransmitters. |
| b. | animals evolved from plants. |
| c. | plants have evolved neuron-like cells. |
| d. | those are the only chemicals that are stable at common environmental temperatures. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Introduction
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- A drug that mimics or increases the effects of a neurotransmitter is called a(n):
| a. | agonist. |
| b. | antagonist. |
| c. | stimulant. |
| d. | protagonist. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- A drug that blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter is called a(n):
| a. | agonist. |
| b. | antagonist. |
| c. | depressant. |
| d. | protagonist. |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- A drug that blocks the effects of a neurotransmitter is a(n) ____; a drug that mimics or increases the effects is a(n) ____.
| a. | neuromodulator; synergist |
| b. | agonist; antagonist |
| c. | depressant; stimulant |
| d. | antagonist; agonist |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MSC: www
- Which effect would be considered to be antagonistic?
| a. | blocking the synthesis of neurotransmitters |
| b. | stimulating the release of neurotransmitters |
| c. | blocking the reuptake of neurotransmitters |
| d. | interfering with the breakdown of neurotransmitters |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 1 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Which effect would be considered to be agonistic?
| a. | blocking the synthesis of neurotransmitters |
| b. | stimulating the release of neurotransmitters |
| c. | blocking the postsynaptic receptors |
| d. | mimicking enzymes that breakdown neurotransmitters |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- To say that a drug has an affinity for a particular type of receptor is to imply that the drug:
| a. | breaks down neurotransmitter chemicals at that receptor site. |
| b. | will always excite the postsynaptic receptor. |
| c. | will always inhibit the postsynaptic receptor. |
| d. | binds to that receptor. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- The key into a lock analogy best describes:
| a. | a drug’s efficacy |
| b. | a drug’s affinity for a receptor |
| c. | breakdown at a receptor site |
| d. | a drug’s reuptake |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
MSC: www
- If a drug binds to a particular receptor, it is said to:
| a. | increase the synthesis of the neurotransmitter used at that receptor. |
| b. | decrease the synthesis of the neurotransmitter used at that receptor. |
| c. | stimulate breakdown at that receptor. |
| d. | have an affinity for that type of receptor. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- With respect to drug effects, “efficacy” means the tendency of a drug to:
| a. | have inhibitory effects. |
| b. | have excitatory effects. |
| c. | attach to a receptor. |
| d. | activate a receptor. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- What is one factor in determining whether a drug that readily attaches to a receptor will have agonistic or antagonistic effects?
| a. | its affinity for the receptor |
| b. | its efficacy |
| c. | the neurotransmitter than normally attaches to that receptor |
| d. | its electrical charge |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- If a drug has high affinity and low efficacy, what effect does it have on the postsynaptic neuron?
| a. | antagonistic |
| b. | agonistic |
| c. | proactive |
| d. | destructive |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- If a drug has high affinity and high efficacy, what effect does it have on the postsynaptic neuron?
| a. | antagonistic |
| b. | agonistic |
| c. | proactive |
| d. | destructive |
ANS: B PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- The effectiveness and side-effects of a drug vary from one person to the next. One reason for this is that:
| a. | most drugs are chemically unstable, resulting in unpredictable effects. |
| b. | most drugs interact with the diet to produce variable effects. |
| c. | each drug tends to affect more than one kind of synapse. |
| d. | drugs will break down neurotransmitters into different component parts in different people. |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: Drug Mechanisms
OBJ: 2 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Why do the effects of certain transmitters, such as serotonin, vary from one synapse to another?
| a. | The brain releases different forms of serotonin at different synapses. |
| b. | It depends whether it is an original serotonin molecule or one that has been recycled. |
| c. | The width of the synaptic cleft varies from one synapse to another. |
| d. | There are several kinds of postsynaptic receptors for serotonin. |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: conceptual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Affinity refers to a drug’s ____, while efficacy refers to a drug’s ____.
| a. | concentration; effectiveness |
| b. | function; structure |
| c. | strength of binding to the receptor; tendency to activate the receptor |
| d. | tendency to activate the receptor; strength of binding to the receptor |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- The brain area most often linked to drug addiction is the:
| a. | nucleus accumbens. |
| b. | whole limbic system. |
| c. | frontal lobes. |
| d. | brain stem. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Which of the following activities does NOT stimulate dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens?
| a. | gambling |
| b. | sexual excitement |
| c. | video games |
| d. | running |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Which neurotransmitter has been repeatedly connected with addictive drugs?
| a. | epinephrine |
| b. | acetylcholine |
| c. | serotonin |
| d. | dopamine |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- Most habit-forming drugs activate which type of synapse?
| a. | acetylcholine |
| b. | opiate |
| c. | GABA |
| d. | dopamine |
ANS: D PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- A drug that produces excitement, alertness, elevated mood, and decreased fatigue is referred to as a:
| a. | stimulant. |
| b. | depressant. |
| c. | hallucinogen. |
| d. | tranquilizer. |
ANS: A PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 3 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- The presynaptic terminal ordinarily reabsorbs released dopamine through a protein called a:
| a. | dopamine reabsorber |
| b. | dopamine releaser |
| c. | dopamine transporter |
| d. | dopamine agonist |
ANS: C PTS: 1 DIF: factual REF: A Survey of Abused Drugs OBJ: 5 TOP: 3.3 Synapses, Drugs, and Addictions
- At the synapse, amphetamine:
| a. | blocks the breakdown of dopamine. |
| b. | increases the release of dopamine from the presynaptic terminal. |
| c. | increases the sensitivity of dopamine receptors. |
