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Biopsychology Flashcards
Free A Level Psychology Revision Cards
Cover the structure of neurons, synaptic transmission, the autonomic nervous system, brain lateralisation, and scanning techniques with these free A Level Psychology flashcards.
Question
What is the central nervous system (CNS)?
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Answer
The brain and spinal cord. The CNS processes information and coordinates responses. The brain is the control centre; the spinal cord relays signals between the brain and body.
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Question
What is the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?
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Answer
All nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Divided into the somatic nervous system (voluntary muscle control) and the autonomic nervous system (involuntary body functions).
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Question
What is the autonomic nervous system and its two divisions?
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Answer
Controls involuntary bodily functions. Sympathetic division: activates the body for action (fight-or-flight). Parasympathetic division: restores the body to rest (rest and digest).
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Question
What happens during the fight-or-flight response?
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Answer
The sympathetic nervous system activates: adrenaline is released, heart rate increases, pupils dilate, digestion slows, muscles receive more blood — preparing for physical action.
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Question
What is a neuron?
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Answer
A specialised nerve cell that transmits electrical impulses. Consists of a cell body (soma), dendrites (receive signals), axon (transmits signals), and axon terminals (release neurotransmitters).
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Question
What is a synapse?
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Answer
The tiny gap between two neurons (the synaptic cleft). Signals cross it chemically via neurotransmitters, which bind to receptors on the postsynaptic membrane.
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Question
What are neurotransmitters and give three examples?
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Answer
Chemical messengers released from axon terminals that transmit signals across synapses. Examples: dopamine (reward/pleasure), serotonin (mood), acetylcholine (muscle activation, memory).
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Question
What is excitatory vs inhibitory synaptic transmission?
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Answer
Excitatory neurotransmitters (e.g. glutamate) increase the likelihood of the postsynaptic neuron firing. Inhibitory neurotransmitters (e.g. GABA) decrease this likelihood.
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Question
What is the endocrine system?
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Answer
A system of glands that produce and secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream. Works alongside the nervous system but is slower and longer-lasting. Key glands: pituitary, adrenal, thyroid, pancreas.
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Question
What is the role of the pituitary gland?
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Answer
Called the "master gland" — it regulates other endocrine glands by releasing hormones that stimulate them. Located at the base of the brain, controlled by the hypothalamus.
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