Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main difference between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems?

Accepted Answer

The somatic nervous system controls voluntary movements, while the autonomic nervous system controls involuntary functions.

Question 2

During an action potential, which ion is primarily responsible for the depolarization phase, and what is the typical peak membrane potential reached?

Accepted Answer

Na$$^+$$ influx; $$+30 mV$$

Question 3

Which of the following best explains why action potentials travel in only one direction along an axon?

Accepted Answer

The absolute refractory period prevents the backward propagation of action potentials.

Question 4

A patient suffers a spinal cord transection at the thoracic level. Which of the following is the most likely immediate effect?

Accepted Answer

Loss of voluntary movement and sensation below the level of injury.

Question 5

Which glial cell is responsible for forming the myelin sheath in the central nervous system (CNS)?

Accepted Answer

Oligodendrocyte

Question 6

Which of the following best describes saltatory conduction?

Accepted Answer

Action potentials jump from one node of Ranvier to the next, increasing conduction speed.

Question 7

Which neurotransmitter is released at the neuromuscular junction to stimulate skeletal muscle contraction?

Accepted Answer

Acetylcholine

Question 8

A person touches a hot stove and immediately withdraws their hand. Which neural pathway is primarily responsible for this rapid response?

Accepted Answer

Simple reflex arc

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the function of the thalamus?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a relay station for sensory information going to the cerebral cortex.

Question 10

Which of the following is true regarding the difference between EPSPs and IPSPs?

Accepted Answer

EPSPs depolarize the postsynaptic membrane, while IPSPs hyperpolarize it.

Question 11

Which structure in the eye is primarily responsible for focusing light onto the retina by changing its shape?

Accepted Answer

Lens

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why sniffing enhances the perception of smell?

Accepted Answer

Sniffing increases airflow to the olfactory epithelium, bringing more odorant molecules into contact with receptors.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the role of Ca$$^{2+} at a $$chemical synapse?

Accepted Answer

Ca$$^{2+}$$ enters the synaptic end bulb and triggers the release of neurotransmitters from synaptic vesicles.

Question 14

Which of the following is a function of the limbic system?

Accepted Answer

Regulation of emotions and memory formation

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the process of sensory adaptation?

Accepted Answer

A decrease in receptor response to a constant stimulus over time

Question 16

Which of the following is true regarding the distribution of rods and cones in the retina?

Accepted Answer

Rods are more numerous in the peripheral retina, while cones are concentrated in the fovea.

Question 17

Which of the following best describes the function of the cerebellum?

Accepted Answer

Coordination of voluntary movements and balance

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct statement about the all-or-none law for action potentials?

Accepted Answer

If threshold is reached, an action potential of fixed size is generated; if not, no action potential occurs.

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between afferent and efferent neurons?

Accepted Answer

Afferent neurons carry sensory information to the CNS; efferent neurons carry motor commands away from the CNS.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains how the ear distinguishes between high and low frequency sounds?

Accepted Answer

Different regions of the basilar membrane in the cochlea vibrate in response to different frequencies.

BIO 111 Nervous System, Eye, and Ear Study Guide – Step-by-Step Guidance

Study Guide - Practice Questions