Psych 101 - Ch. 2
Neurotransmitters
Chemical messengers that are released into the synaptic gap
Terminals
Contain neurotransmitters; form junctions with dendrites of other neurons
Axon Terminal
Forms a junction with the dendrite of the receiving neuron
Cell Body
Generates energy and contains genetic material
Limbic System
Hypothalamus, Pituitary, Amygdala, Hippocampus
Myelin
Increases speed of neural impulses
Amygdala
Involved in aggression, fear, and emotional memories
Hippocampus
Involved in learning new memories
Pituitary
Master gland of the endocrine system, controlled by the hypothalamus
Dendrite of Receiving Neuron
Receives signal from other neurons
Dendrites
Receives signals from other neurons
Synaptic Vesicles
Small membrane sacs that contain neurotransmitters
Synaptic Gap
The physical space between two neurons; also called the synaptic cleft
Hypothalamus
controls eating and other motivated behaviors, and is linked to emotion
Receptor Site
Binds with the neurotransmitter and influences the new electrical signal
Axon
Carries signals from cell body to the axon terminal