12. The Central Nervous System

An axon is best defined as a process that:

a. Transmits signals only toward the cell body.

b. Can generate action potentials.

c. Transmits signals only away from the cell body.

d. Cannot generate action potentials

The myelinated segment of an axon that is covered by a glial cell is called a/an ________; the gaps between glial cells where the axolemma is exposed are called ________.

Which of the following statements about the general functions of the nervous system is false?

a. The three primary functions of the nervous system include sensory, integrative, and motor functions.

b. The integrative functions of the nervous system are its processing functions.

c. Sensory stimuli are transmitted on sensory efferent fibers to a sensory receptor.

d. Motor functions are carried out by fibers that carry signals to an effector.

Why must a cell body be intact for an axon to regenerate? (Hint: What structure is housed only in the cell body, and what are its functions?)

The central nervous system is responsible for:

a. Integrative functions

b. Sensory functions

c. Motor functions

d. Both b and c are correct

Mark the following statements about the brain as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

Humans use only 10% of their brains.

Mark the following statements about the brain as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The four main components of the brain are the cerebrum, the diencephalon, the cerebellum, and the brainstem.

Mark the following statements about the brain as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The right and left lateral ventricles are the largest of the ventricles in the brain and are located in the diencephalon.

What structure forms cerebrospinal fluid? How does this occur?

Explain the importance of the blood brain barrier, and list the structures that form it.

Mark the following statements about the spinal cord as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The spinal cord functions as a relay and processing station.

Mark the following statements about the spinal cord as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The spinal cord extends from the foramen magnum to the level between the first and second lumbar vertebrae.

Mark the following statements about the spinal cord as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The epidural space around the spinal cord is only a potential space.

Mark the following statements about the spinal cord as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement.

The posterior horn of spinal gray matter contains the cell bodies of motor neurons.

Mark the following statements on the role of the brain in movement as true or false. If a statement is false, correct it to make a true statement. 

The dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra enhance the actions of the caudate nucleus and putamen.