AP Biology Review Questions
Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling
Chapter 48
NOTE: These review questions should be completed prior to lecture on Monday – these are the “need to
know” concepts for Ch. 48.
YOU MUST KNOW:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The anatomy of a neuron and how form fits function in the neuron (Figure 48.4).
The mechanism of impulse transmission in a neuron (Figures 48.6b and 48.11).
The role of voltage-gated ion channels in the generation of an action potential (Figure 48.9 and 48.10).
The process that leads to release of neurotransmitter, and what happens at the synapse (Figure 48.15).
1. Review Figure 48.4, 48.12, and 48.13 in your textbook. Draw and label the neuron structure and
organization. Describe how form fits function in the mammalian neuron AND state the function of the parts
listed below:
Draw and Label the Neuron AND Explain how Form Fits Function!
a. cell body: ________________________________________________________________________
b. dendrites: ________________________________________________________________________
c. axons: ___________________________________________________________________________
d. myelin sheath: ____________________________________________________________________
e. axon hillock: ______________________________________________________________________
f. glia: ____________________________________________________________________________
g. oligodendrocytes: __________________________________________________________________
h. Schwann cells: ____________________________________________________________________
i. nodes of Ranvier: __________________________________________________________________
j. salutatory conduction: ______________________________________________________________
k. synapse: _________________________________________________________________________
l. synaptic vescicles: _________________________________________________________________
m. neurotransmitters: _________________________________________________________________
n. synaptic cleft: _____________________________________________________________________
AP Biology Review Questions
Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling
Chapter 48
2. Review Figure 48.10 in your textbook and the graph below. Explain the role of voltage-gated ion channels
in the generation of an action potential. What is occurring at each numbered section of the graph? You may
find the following animation useful: http://bcs.whfreeman.com/thelifewire/content/chp44/4402s.swf .
AP Biology Review Questions
Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling
Chapter 48
3. Review Figure 48.11 and 48.13 in your textbook. Explain the conduction of an action potential, and the
role of Schwann cells and the myelin sheath in saltatory conduction. What is occurring at each step in the
diagram below and how does the structure of the neuron assist in this process? You may find the following
animation useful: http://highered.mcgrawhill.com/sites/0072495855/student_view0/chapter14/animation__the_nerve_impulse.html
AP Biology Review Questions
Neurons, Synapses, and Signaling
Chapter 48
4. Review Figure 48.15 in your textbook. Draw, label, AND describe the events of the chemical synapse.
You may find the following animation useful:
http://bcs.whfreeman.com/thelifewire/content/chp44/4402003.html